Do your eyes frequently feel irritated, scratchy, and gritty? You may be experiencing dry eye.
There are many reasons your eyes can become dry temporarily, from improper contact lens use to environmental factors. When dry eye becomes chronic, it can be incredibly frustrating and lead to complications like corneal abrasions or infections.
However, you can alleviate these concerns by addressing your dry eye symptoms. Keep reading to learn more about 6 recommendations for reducing discomfort from dry, itchy eyes.
Why Are Your Eyes Dry?
Your eyes can become dry for various reasons, ranging from temporary reasons like environmental irritants to chronic conditions like meibomian gland dysfunction. When dry eyes are chronic, it’s known as dry eye or dry eye syndrome.
The underlying issue with dry eyes relates to the tear film, which is essential for maintaining eye lubrication. A healthy tear film protects the eye surface from debris and bacteria.
If your eyes struggle to produce one of the essential components of tears, it can create an imbalance and lead to dry eye. Dry eyes often result from insufficient oil production, causing tears to evaporate too quickly.
This disruption to the tear film can be caused by:
- Hormonal changes like menopause
- Aging
- Overuse of screens
- Side effects of medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics
- Wearing contact lenses for too long
- Irritation to wind, smoke, or dryness
- Blepharitis
- Rosacea
- Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and lupus
- Side effects of LASIK or other eye procedures
Dry eye treatment often depends on fixing the root cause, like switching to glasses if contacts are too irritating, or releasing blockages in the meibomian glands if your tear film doesn’t have enough oil.
How to Know if You Have Dry Eye
Besides having dry eyes, common symptoms of dry eye include:
- Red, irritated eyes
- Burning, stinging, or gritty sensations
- Inability to wear contact lenses
- Light sensitivity
- Excessive eye watering
- Mucus buildup in and around the eyes
- Blurry vision
These symptoms can also be indicators of things like allergies or conjunctivitis, so you should schedule an appointment with your eye doctor at Loden Vision Centers to receive an official diagnosis through a comprehensive eye exam. They can also recommend treatment options based on your individual eye health and lifestyle.
How is Dry Eye Treated?
Depending on the severity of your dry eye, your eye doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or treatments to ease dryness and itchiness, such as:
1. Using Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, known as artificial tears, can provide immediate relief. These drops add moisture to your eyes, helping to alleviate discomfort, although they are not a permanent solution.
Discuss with your eye doctor which type of artificial tears is best for you. Different formulations are available, and your doctor can recommend the most suitable option for your specific dry eye case.
2. Get More Omega-3 in Your Diet
Omega-3 fatty acids support tear health and are found in foods like fish, seeds, and walnuts. You can also consider supplements like fish oil or flaxseed oil if you’re vegetarian or vegan, but food sources often provide more nutrients.
However, you should always consult your doctor before taking any new medication or supplements to ensure it’s safe for you.
3. Practice Eyelid Hygiene
Inflammation is a common cause of dry eye and can also be a consequence, creating a cycle of discomfort. This inflammation can result from bacterial buildup.
While some bacteria are naturally present on your skin and eyes, excess bacteria can lead to eyelid inflammation. Maintaining good lid hygiene can help reduce this buildup.
To keep your eyelids clean, use a wet compress, eyelid wipes, or an eyelid scrub, all of which are available over-the-counter. Consult your eye doctor for recommendations on effective and safe products.
4. Use a Humidifier
Especially in the drier seasons like winter, dry air can irritate your eyes and cause or increase dry eye symptoms. Placing a humidifier in rooms you spend the most time in, like your bedroom or office, can help prevent tears from evaporating as quickly.
5. Take Breaks from Screens
When you stare at a screen, your blink rate naturally decreases, meaning your eyes aren’t receiving as much lubrication as usual. By taking intentional breaks from screens, lowering screen brightness, or wearing blue light glasses, you can help reduce its impact on your dry eye.
6. Try Professional Treatment
If lifestyle changes do not fully resolve your symptoms, you should consider professional treatments with your ophthalmologist. At Loden Vision Centers, several options are available:
Prescription Eye Drops
If over-the-counter drops are ineffective, your doctor may prescribe prescription eye drops. These medications can help reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
LipiFlow
LipiFlow is a non-invasive in-office treatment. This procedure involves a device placed over your closed eyelids, which delivers heat and gentle pressure.
The heat and pressure help soften clogged oil glands, enabling your eyes to produce oil more effectively. Since clogged oil glands are the most common cause of dry eye, LipiFlow often proves highly effective and most patients experience significant symptom relief within four weeks.
Punctal Occlusion
Another option is punctal occlusion, where small plugs are inserted into your tear ducts. This procedure helps retain tears on the eye’s surface for longer, compensating for poor tear quality.
Punctal occlusion is minimally invasive and typically performed in-office. The plugs can be temporary or permanent, depending on your needs.
Ready to get relief from your dry, itchy eyes? Schedule an appointment at Loden Vision Centers in Nashville, TN, today!
