Dry, itchy, or irritated eyes? You are not alone. Millions of people experience dry eye discomfort, often dismissing it as a minor annoyance. But what if simple lifestyle changes could make a big difference?
Whether adjusting your screen habits or adding more hydration to your routine, there are easy steps you can take to soothe your eyes and improve your comfort. Let’s look at five everyday changes that can help relieve dry eye.
Eye Mechanix is here to help you take control of your eye health. Schedule an appointment with us in Lincoln Park or La Grange, and let us guide you on the path to better eye health!
1. Increase Hydration
It may sound simple, but staying properly hydrated is one of the easiest and most effective ways to alleviate dry eye symptoms. When dehydrated, your body produces less tear fluid, which is essential for keeping your eyes moist and comfortable.
What You Can Do:
- Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake.
- Keep a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day.
Keeping your body hydrated will promote healthier tear production and relieve some of the discomfort associated with dry eye.
2. Use a Humidifier
Dry air, especially in the winter or air-conditioned environments, can exacerbate dry eye symptoms by evaporating the moisture on the surface of your eyes. Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help maintain a comfortable humidity level, preventing your eyes from drying out.
What You Can Do:
- Use a humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time, like your bedroom or office.
- Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50%.
- For a quick fix, boil water or place bowls near heating vents to add moisture to the air.
This simple adjustment to your environment can make a big difference, especially during dry seasons or in heated spaces.
3. Adjust Your Screen Time Habits
Prolonged screen time is a major culprit in causing or worsening dry eye. When we focus on screens, whether computer, phone, or TV, we tend to blink less, which reduces tear production and causes our eyes to dry out.
What You Can Do:
- Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away to give your eyes a rest.
- Blink more consciously while working at the computer or watching TV.
- Position your screen slightly below eye level to reduce strain on your eyes.
By being mindful of your screen habits, you can reduce the strain on your eyes and prevent them from drying out.
4. Add Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Your Diet
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve tear quality by supporting the oil-producing glands in your eyes. A well-balanced diet rich in omega-3s can help reduce dry eye symptoms.
What You Can Do:
- Add omega-3-rich foods like salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds to your diet.
- Consider taking omega-3 supplements if you don’t regularly consume enough of these foods.
- Speak to your doctor before starting supplements to ensure they are right for you.
5. Practice Good Eyelid Hygiene
Proper eyelid hygiene can help reduce eye inflammation, a common cause of dry eye. Keeping your eyelids clean helps prevent blockages in the oil glands that play a vital role in keeping your tears stable and your eyes comfortable.
What You Can Do:
- Wash your eyelids with warm water and a mild, hypoallergenic soap or baby shampoo.
- Use a clean, warm compress on your eyelids for 5-10 minutes daily to help unblock oil glands.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation.
Personalized Dry Eye Care at Eye Mechanix
While these lifestyle changes can provide relief, sometimes dry eye requires more personalized treatment. At Eye Mechanix, our team offers comprehensive dry eye management to help address the root causes of your discomfort. We provide tailored recommendations and treatments based on your needs, whether eye drops, medications, or advanced therapies like IPL or TrueTear.
Don’t let dry eye disrupt your daily life. Schedule an appointment at Eye Mechanix in Lincoln Park or La Grange for a thorough evaluation and personalized plan.