Whether you are happy, sad, or just contemplating life, your eyes are always full of tears. These tears lubricate and add moisture to your eyes to help your vision remain clear, and to keep your eyes feeling comfortable.
However, there are times when your eyes can become too dry. Here are some common signs that you may have dry eyes:
- Itchiness
- The feeling that there is something in your eye
- Blurred vision
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Tearing
What Causes Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes are caused by any number of issues, such as:
- Dry conditions, such as your air conditioner, heater, or windy days.
- Side effects of some medications
- The natural aging process
- Health issues that hamper your body’s ability to create tears.
- Problems that prevent your eyelids from closing completely.
How to Treat Dry Eyes
There are many ways you can treat your dry eyes. Here are some simple ones to try:
- Warm compresses: Apply a warm cloth to your eyes to help open clogged ducts.
- Add fish oil or omega-3 fatty acids to to your diet to help reduce the symptoms of dry eye.
- Drink up!: More liquids, such as water, can relieve mild dehydration that can make dry eyes worse.
- Step away from the computer: Staring at your computer can stress your eyes and exacerbate dry eyes. Look away every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds.
- Wear sunglasses: Aside from looking cool, wearing sunglasses can protect your eyes from the sun and wind, both of which can dry out your eyes.
- Use eye drops: You can buy over-the-counter eye drops that add moisture to your eyes.
- Schedule an appointment with optometrist, Krishna Khatri at Lasalle Vision. You will get a thorough and complete assessment about the health of your eyes, and receive friendly, professional advice as to the best ways to address dry eyes that meets your specific needs. Say goodbye to dry eye!
