Whether experiencing chronic dry eye syndrome or infrequent dry eye symptoms, dry eye affects most people at some point in their lives. The first step in finding an appropriate dry eye treatment is determining the root cause of your dry eye.
There are many causes of dry eye. Keep reading to learn four reasons your eyes may be dry!
You Are Dehydrated
Tears are what keep your eyes moisturized and healthy. Your tears are also primarily made of water, so it makes sense that the more water your body can access, the easier it can produce tears.
However, many people are not drinking enough water. Depending on your size and lifestyle, you could be more dehydrated than you think. When you are dehydrated, tear production is usually affected.
While drinking pure water is important, you can also get your hydration through food. Watermelon, cucumbers, and celery, for example, have high water content and are also delicious.
Ask your doctor how much water you should be taking in per day.
Your Environment is Dry
When your eyes are open, their surfaces are exposed to the elements. If your environment is dry and windy, your eyes can quickly lose moisture and become irritated.
While you cannot control the weather outside, there is a lot you can do to keep your home protected. Start by sealing any drafts in your home to keep moisture inside the building.
Also, use A/C sparingly and keep fans pointed away from your face. YOu may need to raise the air moisture in your home with a humidifier.
While you’re at it, get an air purifier to remove airborne allergens and other irritating particles.
You Are Using Screens Too Much
Nowadays, it is almost impossible to avoid using a computer or smartphone. These devices have become essential in our lives, but they can irritate your eyes if you are not careful.
When you are absorbed in a screen, you may forget to blink. Whether you realize it or not, your eyes could be staying open for minutes at a time while you focus.
Blinking is how your eyes produce oils to aid in moisturization and spread the tears across the surface of your eye. You don’t have to get rid of your smartphone in order to keep your vision safe and your eyes comfortable.
Try setting a timer when you are using a screen. Set it for twenty minutes, and look away from the screen when it goes off.
Focus on something twenty feet away for at least twenty seconds before returning to your activity. This will help remind yourself to blink and prevent eye fatigue.
Your Dry Eye is a Medical Problem
Sometimes dry eye is out of your control. Dry eye syndrome can be genetic, a side effect of medication, or a glandular issue.
The only way to know for sure is to ask a doctor. There are different ways to handle dry eye syndrome, depending on what is causing it.
Do you want to determine the cause of your dry eye and start a treatment plan to improve your symptoms? Book an appointment at Levin Eyecare in Bel Air, MD, today!