Tear films in the eyes provide constant moisture and lubrication, which the eye depends on to maintain comfort and vision. A deficiency or imbalance in this tear system, rapid evaporation of tears, aging, medical conditions (such as diabetes, thyroid problems), exposure to smoke or wind, and long screen hours can lead to dry eyes. Some dry eye symptoms include blurred vision, itching, red or watery eyes, light sensitivity, and a burning sensation. But what can you do to manage this condition and keep your eyes healthy?
1. Use artificial tears
Artificial tears are the most common and effective treatment for dry eyes. They come in a bottle and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. Their components help to attract and retain moisture in the eye. However, some contain preservatives that can irritate the eyes.
If you use artificial tears often, look for preservative-free options.
2. Wet towel compress
If your eyes feel irritated, use a wet towel to compress over your closed eyelids for a few minutes to soothe and relieve pain in the eyes. The compresses effectively unclogs and cleanses the meibomian gland, which is responsible for tear production. You can use towel compresses 1-3 times a day.
3. Omega-3 supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for maintaining the health of your cell membranes, including those in your eyes. For dry eyes, Omega-3 supplements help to decrease inflammation and improve tear production. The presence of lipids in Omega-3 also prevents tears from evaporating too quickly. You can take Omega-3 supplements as capsules or include foods rich in them, such as salmon, tuna, and walnuts, in your diet.
4. Lubricating eye drops
Lubricating eye drops are thicker than artificial tears and provide longer-lasting moisture to the eye. They can be used for more severe dry eye symptoms. You can purchase these eye drops over the counter or with a prescription. They form a thin layer over the eye’s surface to prevent natural tears from evaporating.
5. Castor oil eye drops
Castor oil is naturally very thick, making it an effective lubricant for the eyes. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce irritation and antibiotic properties that can help prevent infection from dry, cracked eyes. The castor oil’s thickness allows it to coat the natural tears for extended periods since evaporation is significantly slowed. The eye drops can be purchased over-the-counter or online but should be used cautiously as they may cause blurry vision.
Always wash your hands before applying any treatments to your eyes, and avoid using expired products, as they may cause more irritation. Also, ensure to blink a few times after applying the drops to distribute them evenly over the surface of your eye. If you experience persistent dry eye symptoms, consult an optician to discuss other treatment options.