At-home remedies for Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye can be caused by several factors, ranging from environmental conditions to health issues and lifestyle habits. It is defined by inflammation, lack of moisture, corneal nerve degeneration and/or an imbalance of salts and water in your tears. 

Here are some of the main causes:

1. Aging: Tear production tends to decrease as we age, making older adults more susceptible to dry eyes.

2. Medications: Certain medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs can reduce tear production.

3. Screen Time: Prolonged use of digital devices causes us to blink less, which decreases tear production and can lead to eye dryness.

4. Environmental Factors: Wind, smoke, dry climates, and air conditioning can all contribute to dry eyes by causing tears to evaporate more quickly.

5. Health Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes can lead to reduced tear production.

6. Contact Lenses: Long-term wear of contact lenses can disrupt tear production, often leading to discomfort.

7. Using incorrect eye drops (i.e. over the counter preservative containing drops) can further the imbalance of salts and water in your tears 

Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms can vary in intensity and include:

• Gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes

• Redness

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision

• Watery eyes (a reaction to dryness, where the eyes overcompensate by producing more tears)

• Itching or burning sensation

• Unable to wear contact lenses 

If left untreated, dry eyes can damage the corneal surface and make it more difficult to perform everyday activities.

How to Manage and Treat Dry Eye

1. Artificial Tears:  The correct ingredients can make all the difference. Do you know what ingredients are needed for your type of dry eye?

2. Lifestyle Changes:

   • Limit screen time and take breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

   • Adjust your environment by using a humidifier, especially in dry or air-conditioned spaces. Avoid fans. 

   • Protect your eyes from wind and sun by wearing sunglasses outdoors.

   • Sleep enough!

3. Diet and Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential, as dehydration can worsen dry eyes. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish or supplements, may also help improve tear quality.

4. Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene: Warm compresses can help stimulate oil production in the glands around the eyes, improving tear quality. Gently cleaning the eyelids can also remove irritants and prevent eyelid inflammation.

5. Prescription Medications: For more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, or procedures such as lacrimal irrigation and/or punctual plugs

6. Advanced In office techniques such as Intense Pulsed Light, Low Level Light Therapy, thermal evacuation and/or Radiofrequency

Dry eye may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can significantly impact your quality of life if left unaddressed. By understanding its causes and taking proactive steps to manage it, you can find relief and prevent further discomfort. Whether through eye drops, lifestyle changes, or medical treatment, relief from dry eyes is possible – and worth pursuing.