Simple Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Dry Eye

Dry eye syndrome is an eye anomaly where your eyes do not produce ample tears. The tears generated may evaporate too fast, leading to dry eye syndrome. This can result in irritation, discomfort, and even vision problems. Several dry eye treatments are available, but simple lifestyle changes can help alleviate dry eye symptoms. 

Staying Hydrated

Dehydration can cause dry eye symptoms to worsen. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding dehydrating drinks are crucial. These drinks include alcohol and caffeine. Also, increase your intake of water-rich fruits and vegetables. They help keep your body hydrated.

Blink More Often

Blinking is the typical way your eyes keep lubricated and moist. But when you stare at a computer screen or other digital devices, you tend to blink fewer times, leading to dry eye symptoms. To combat this, experts recommended following the 20-20-20 rule. Take a break every 20 minutes, look away for 20 seconds, and blink for 20 seconds.

Take Breaks From Screens

Prolonged screen time can result in eyestrain, leading to dry eye symptoms. Taking regular breaks from screens can help reduce eyestrain and improve eye health. Eye health specialists recommend taking a break every 20-30 minutes. 

Adjust Your Environment

Dry air can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Using a humidifier in your home or office helps reduce dry eye syndrome symptoms. The device helps keep the air moist and reduce symptoms. Additionally, avoiding windy or smoky environments can help prevent dry eye symptoms from worsening.

Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet helps alleviate dry eye symptoms and improve your eye health. Eat foods rich in:

• Omega-3 fatty acids

• Vitamins A, C, and E

• Other nutritious foods

Eat foods that pack a healthy dose of these nutrients, including:

• Fish

• Nuts

• Seeds

• Leafy green vegetables

• Citrus fruits

Practice Good Eyelid Hygiene 

The eyelids are responsible for spreading tears over the eye’s surface. However, blocked tear ducts and dry eye symptoms may develop if the eyelids are not clean. Practicing good eyelid hygiene, such as using warm compresses to clean the eyelids, can help prevent this.

Use Eye Drops

Over-the-counter eye drops are effective in alleviating dry eye symptoms. They help lubricate your eyes and alleviate inflammation. However, using preservative-free eye drops is imperative. Also, follow the instructions carefully.

Protect Your Eyes

Wearing protective eyewear helps prevent dry eye symptoms from worsening. Sunglasses can help shield the eyes from wind, dust, and other environmental irritants that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
 

Conclusion

Dry eye syndrome can be uncomfortable and frustrating, but simple lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms and improve eye health. From staying hydrated to practicing good eyelid hygiene, you can initiate easy-to-implement changes toward a lifetime of eye health. It is imperative that you consult your eye doctor if your symptoms persist. It helps determine if there are underlying issues that need addressing.

For more on lifestyle changes that help dry eye, call Drs. Stein and Goldschneider at (856) 408-1800 to reach our office in Blackwood, New Jersey.