When dealing with dry eyes, many people instinctively reach for over-the-counter eye drops. While these can be helpful, there are also lifestyle changes you can make to address the underlying causes of dry eye. Even little adjustments can help manage your symptoms. Here are some simple, everyday habits to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water is crucial, not just for your overall health but also for keeping your eyes moist and comfortable. Remember to drink water throughout the day. If you don’t like plain water, herbal teas or infused waters are great alternatives that count toward your daily intake.
Blink more often
We often blink less when staring at screens, which can cause our eyes to dry out. Make a conscious effort to blink regularly, especially when using computers or other digital devices. Try to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away.
Adjust your environment
Take a look around your space. Is the air dry or are you sitting directly in front of a fan? Consider using a humidifier to add some moisture back into the air or reposition yourself so you’re not directly in the path of air vents or fans.
Protect your eyes outside
When you’re outside enjoying a beautiful sunny day, don’t forget your sunglasses. Select wraparound styles that protect your eyes from wind and UV rays. They’re not just a fashion statement; they’re essential for keeping your eyes from drying out, especially on breezy days or when you’re spending time at the beach.
Take breaks from screens
If you spend a lot of time staring at screens, make sure to take regular breaks to give your eyes a rest. Try to step away every hour for a few minutes. Your eyes will feel less strained, and you might find you’re more productive, too!
Adjust your diet
What you eat can make a difference in how your eyes feel. Try to increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids by eating foods like salmon and walnuts. They can help improve tear quality and reduce inflammation. Also, eat leafy greens and vibrant fruits for a good dose of antioxidants, which are great for your eye health.
Be mindful of makeup
If you love wearing makeup, make sure to apply it carefully and keep it away from your lash line to avoid blocking oil glands. Always remove your makeup thoroughly before bed to prevent irritation.
Get regular eye check-ups
Regular eye exams are important for keeping tabs on your eye health. At New England EyeWorks, we offer dry eye evaluations in Keene to help you relieve your discomfort. During your eye exam, we will perform different tests to see what is causing your dry eyes and decide on the best course of treatment. We can recommend specific treatments or products to suit your needs and lifestyle, including IPL therapy or BlephEx® treatment. So don’t skip those check-ups!
Conclusion
A few simple changes can make a world of difference in managing dry eye symptoms and keeping your eyes comfortable. If these tips don’t help, our team at New England EyeWorks can provide personalized advice and advanced solutions. Chronic or severe dry eye can permanently damage the surface of your eyes if left untreated, so it’s best to seek professional care when other treatment options are ineffective. Please reach out to us today to schedule an eye exam in Keene, New Hampshire.