Tear glands in the eyes are primarily responsible for the production of tears to coat and lubricate the eyeball, thus enabling a person to enhance their peripheral vision. Dry eye is a condition that results in the deficiency of natural tears caused due to environmental or natural factors. Common factors that increase one’s discomfort include allergies, contacts, medical conditions, a side effect of certain medications, and aging.
Common symptoms of dry eyes include blurry vision, fatigued eyes, light sensitivity, mucus formation, redness around the eyeballs, and irritation caused due to an itchy and scratchy condition that results in a painful sensation. Dry eye is not a severe condition and simple home remedies can help manage the condition.
Easy ways to manage the symptoms of dry eyes:
- Changes in the environment
Avoid smoking and try to stay indoors if the weather gets too bad outside. Particulate pollution can easily aggravate the symptoms of dry eyes which is why it is a one must use the necessary eyewear to protect the eyes, especially while riding a motorcycle or driving in a convertible. At home, one can buy and install an air humidifier to control temperature and humidity making it a favorable environment to manage the symptoms of dry eyes. - Changes in diet
Food is directly connected to the causes and symptoms of many medical conditions. Doctors believe that making the necessary changes in one’s diet will help relieve a certain level of discomfort. To provide temporary relief from the symptoms of dry eyes, one must increase the intake of omega-3 fatty acids or supplements including walnuts, salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, chia seeds, and incorporate the use of essential oils like soybean, flaxseed, and palm oil. Changes in diet must also be supplemented with proper rest and sleep. The eyes just like any other part of the body need rest after a rigorous day of workout which is why doctors recommend a good 8 hours of restful sleep to complete a proper REM cycle. - Topical applications
There are a number of topical ointments and applications available at the local pharmacist that do not necessarily need a prescription for purchase. However, it is a good idea to consult with an eye specialist before applying the same to understand the dosage and its effect in countering the symptoms of dry eyes. Eye drops are the most popular topical application for dry eyes but provide only temporary relief. Ointments, on the other hand, coat the eyeball and provide long term relief from itching, scratching, and similar forms of discomfort. It is advisable to use an ointment at night as the topical application can cause the vision to blur temporarily. - Warm compress
Due to lack of lubrication, the flesh of the eyeball cannot move freely inside the eye socket and against the friction of the eyelids. A moist warm compress can help the eyelids produce more lipids, a compound necessary to improve the quality of ears. The compress also helps relieve itching and redness caused due to dry eyes.
Note that home remedies will provide short term relief for only some of the mild to moderate symptoms of the condition. Medical attention is advisable in case of persistent discomfort to reduce the risk of health complications.
