Lifestyle Changes That May Reduce Your Dry Eye Symptoms

Tips To Find Relief From Dry Eye Syndrome Symptoms

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day helps maintain overall hydration, including your eyes. Dehydration can worsen dry eye symptoms, so make it a habit to drink plenty of water.
2. Blink Regularly: When we engage in activities that require intense focus, such as reading or using a computer, we tend to blink less frequently. This can lead to dryness in the eyes. Remind yourself to blink regularly, and take breaks to rest your eyes to reduce eye strain.
3. Use a Humidifier: Dry indoor air can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Using a humidifier in your home or office can add moisture to the air and help alleviate dryness. Aim for a humidity level of around 40-60%.
4. Adjust Your Screen Time: Extended periods of screen time can contribute to dry eyes. Take regular breaks, follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and reduce the brightness of your screen to minimize eye strain.
5. Wear Sunglasses: When going outdoors, protect your eyes from wind, dust, and excessive sunlight by wearing sunglasses. Look for sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection and have wraparound frames to shield your eyes from dry air and environmental irritants.
6. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin C, are essential for eye health. Incorporate foods like fatty fish (salmon, tuna), leafy greens, citrus fruits, and carrots into your diet to support healthy tear production and reduce dry eye symptoms.
7. Avoid Smoking and Secondhand Smoke: Smoking can worsen dry eye symptoms and contribute to various eye conditions. If you smoke, consider quitting, and avoid secondhand smoke as well. Smoking cessation not only benefits your overall health but also promotes eye health.
8. Protect Your Eyes: When engaging in activities that may expose your eyes to irritants or dry air, such as dusty environments or windy weather, wear protective eyewear like goggles or wraparound glasses to shield your eyes and prevent the evaporation of tears.
9. Clean Your Eyelids: Proper eyelid hygiene is crucial for managing dry eye symptoms. Use a gentle cleanser or warm water to clean your eyelids and remove any debris or crust that may block the oil glands along the eyelid margin. This helps maintain the quality of the tears and prevents them from evaporating too quickly.
10. Get Regular Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are essential for identifying and addressing any underlying issues that may contribute to dry eye syndrome. An optometrist can assess your eye health, prescribe appropriate treatments or eye drops, and provide guidance on managing dry eye symptoms effectively.
11. Avoid Environmental Triggers: Environmental factors such as dry or windy conditions, air conditioning, and heating systems can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Try to minimize exposure to these triggers by using a humidifier, closing vents, or wearing protective eyewear when necessary.
12. Limit Eye Irritants: Avoid exposure to irritants such as smoke, dust, and chemical fumes, as they can worsen dry eye symptoms. If you're in a polluted or dusty environment, consider wearing protective eyewear or using artificial tears to create a barrier and keep your eyes lubricated.
13. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can affect various aspects of your health, including your eyes. Stress can lead to dry eye symptoms and exacerbate existing discomfort. Find healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, meditation, or engaging in hobbies to manage stress levels and promote overall well-being.
14. Use Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops or artificial tears can provide temporary relief from dry eye symptoms. Consult with your optometrist to determine the most suitable type and frequency of eye drops for your specific needs.
     

Find Dry Eye Relief At Specs In The City

While dry eye syndrome can be a persistent and uncomfortable condition, incorporating these lifestyle changes into your daily routine can help reduce symptoms and improve your eye health. From staying hydrated and adjusting screen time to protecting your eyes from environmental triggers and practicing good eyelid hygiene, small adjustments can make a significant difference in managing dry eye symptoms. Remember to consult with an optometrist for personalized guidance and treatment options. By prioritizing self-care and making these lifestyle changes, you can take proactive steps toward alleviating dry eye symptoms and enjoying clearer, more comfortable vision.

If you are tired of dealing with the discomfort and pain of dry eyes, a dry eye exam at Specs in the City is the first step to finding relief. Once the cause of your dry eyes is determined, the Specs in the City team will determine what type of dry eye relief will work best for you. At Specs in the City, our SE Calgary optometrist clinic is a leader when it comes to treating dry eye syndrome through tailored and comprehensive approaches to dry eye syndrome care. Our team of experienced optometrists can create an in-depth care plan that will quickly address your unique needs and provide long-lasting relief. To book a dry eye exam, contact Specs in the City at 1-403-252-2020 or fill out the online contact form.
 

FAQ

Q: What are some solutions to get dry eye relief?
A: Treatment will depend on the cause of your dry eyes, but in general we recommend using specialized prescription eye drops, artificial tears, steroid eye drops, punctal plugs, and warm compresses, although your optometrist may suggest other potential treatments during your dry eye exam.

Q: Can dry eyes lead to other eye conditions?
A: Yes, if untreated Dry Eye Syndrome puts you at risk of developing eye infections as well as damage to the surface of the eye. When you visit a Calgary Optometrist from Specs in the City, they will examine the eye to detect if any damage has occurred. To learn more, read The Hidden Danger Of Undiagnosed Dry Eye Symptoms.

Q: What should I do if I think I have dry eye syndrome?
A: For immediate at-home dry eye relief treatment, you can get eye drops, ointments, and relief masks. If you still cannot find relief, book an appointment at the Specs In The City in Calgary. Our knowledgeable team will help you figure out your diagnosis, the severity of your dry eye syndrome, and what steps to take next.