Do your eyes often feel dry, irritated, or like there’s sand in them? Many people experience dry eye symptoms, and the good news is that there are plenty of ways to find relief. Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or severe irritation, here are some lifestyle changes and treatments that can make a big difference.
Stay hydrated
One of the best things you can do to relieve dry eyes is to stay hydrated. Make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your body and eyes properly hydrated. If you struggle to drink enough water, try setting reminders on your phone or carrying a reusable water bottle wherever you go.
Use warm compresses
A warm compress can work wonders for dry eyes. Soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it over your closed eyes for a few minutes. This can help unblock the oil glands in your eyelids, keeping your eyes comfortable and hydrated.
Take breaks from screens
Spending too much time staring at screens can dry out your eyes. When we stare at screens or focus on something for long periods, we tend to blink less, leading to dryness and discomfort. To prevent this, take regular breaks from your computer, phone, or tablet throughout the day. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Use a humidifier
Dry air can be harsh on your eyes. Using a humidifier in your home, especially during the winter or in dry climates, can add moisture to the air. This can help prevent your eyes from drying out.
Wear sunglasses
Sunglasses aren’t just a fashion statement—they’re essential for protecting your eyes. On windy or sunny days, sunglasses can shield your eyes from wind, dust, and UV rays, all of which can contribute to dryness.
Add omega-3s to your diet
Omega-3 fatty acids are great for your eye health. You can find them in foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. These healthy fats can help improve the quality of your tears, making them more effective at keeping your eyes moist.
Use artificial tears
In addition to these lifestyle changes, artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can provide immediate relief for dry eyes. These over-the-counter products help add moisture back into your eyes and relieve discomfort. It’s important to choose preservative-free drops if you plan on using them frequently throughout the day.
Advanced treatments at Pittsburgh Primary Eyecare
Sometimes, despite our best efforts with at-home remedies and over-the-counter solutions, dry eyes may need more attention. That’s where our dry eye specialists in Pittsburgh come in! At Pittsburgh Primary Eyecare, we offer advanced treatments to address even the most stubborn dry eye cases.
Prescription eye drops
If artificial tears don’t provide sufficient relief, we may recommend prescription eye drops. These medicated drops are specially formulated to reduce inflammation and boost your natural tear production.
LipiFlow® treatment
For those suffering from severe dry eye symptoms that don’t respond well to other treatments, LipiFlow® may be an option worth considering. LipiFlow® uses precise, therapeutic heat to gently warm the meibomian glands in your eyelids. These glands produce the oil layer of your tears, which keeps your tears from evaporating too quickly. The device also applies gentle pressure to your eyelids to unblock any clogged glands. This combination of heat and pressure helps restore the natural flow of oils to your tear film. The entire procedure is quick, comfortable, and can provide long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms.
Don’t let dry eyes hold you back from living life to the fullest! If you’re struggling with severe dry eyes, schedule an appointment at Pittsburgh Primary Eyecare today!
