How to Get Relief from Dry Eye

Dry eye is a common condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including dryness, irritation, burning, and blurry vision. It can occur at any age, but it is more common in people over the age of 50.

Causes of Dry Eye

There are many different causes of dry eye. Some of the most common include:

• Aging: As we age, our tear glands produce fewer tears.
• Medications: Many medications can cause dry eye, including antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants.
• Environmental factors: Dry, windy, or smoky environments can contribute to dry eye.
• Contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses can also contribute to dry eye, especially reusable or extended wear contact lenses. All contact lenses are not created equal – some lenses are much better than others for patients with dry eye.
• Blepharitis: This is a condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids. It can lead to dry eye by blocking the oil glands in the eyelids.
• Meibomian gland dysfunction: This is a condition that causes the oil glands in the eyelids to become blocked or malfunction. It can lead to dry eye by reducing the amount of oil in tears.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

There are many different treatment options for dry eye. The best treatment for you will depend on the severity of your condition and the underlying cause.

• Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help to relieve dry eye symptoms.  Your doctor may recommend a specific formula that is most effective for your individual type of dry eye. 
• Prescription eye drops: Your optometrist may prescribe prescription eye drops to help treat dry eye.
• Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to your eyes can help to unclog the oil glands in your eyelids.
• Lid scrubs: Cleaning your eyelids with a lid scrub can help to remove debris and bacteria that can contribute to dry eye.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements may help to improve the health of your tear glands. Look for a high quality supplement with at least 2,000mg of combined EPA/DHA, such as PRN DE3 Omega Benefits or Nordic Naturals ProOmega 2000.
• Punctal plugs: Patients with moderate to severe dry eye may benefit from punctal plugs, which are small, dissolvable inserts that slow the drainage of tears from your eyes. With punctal plugs, your natural tears and any drops you use stay on the surface of your eye longer, providing longer lasting relief and eye comfort. Punctal plugs are a quick and painless in-office procedure performed by a doctor.
• Intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) and low level light therapy (LLLT): These in-office procedures improve the function of your meibomian glands, leading to better quality tears and improved eye comfort, as well as producing cosmetic improvements in skin appearance.

How to Prevent Dry Eye

There are several things you can do to help prevent dry eye:

• Blink more often: Blinking helps to spread tears over the surface of your eye.
• Avoid dry environments: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.
• Take breaks from computer screens: Staring at a computer screen can cause your eyes to dry out.
• Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses can help to protect your eyes from wind, dust, and other irritants, as well as prevent UV damage to the surface of the eye which can cause or worsen dry eye.

When to See an Optometrist

If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, it is important to see an optometrist. An optometrist can diagnose dry eye and recommend the best treatment options for you.

In conclusion

Dry eye is a common condition that can be treated effectively. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, see your optometrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with an optometrist for diagnosis and treatment of any eye condition.