You don’t have to live with dry eye. No matter how long you’ve had it, chances are there is something you can do to improve your situation. If your dry eye isn’t severe, try some of these at home tips! Keep reading to learn how you can keep your dry eye symptoms under control!
1. Buy Humidifiers for Your Home
If you live in a dry climate, investing in external humidifiers can go a long way towards solving your dry eye. Raising the ambient humidity of your home slows down the rate at which your eyes dry out. This gives them the support they need to stay healthy.
2. Dust Frequently
Removing dust and dirt from your home will prevent particles from entering your eyes. Opt for a damp cloth rather than a dry duster when cleaning. The dust will cling to the cloth instead of being kicked back up into the air.
3. Keep Your Windows Closed
Open windows allow allergens to enter your home, which can irritate your eyes. If it’s possible, try to rely on AC to cool your home. Make sure to combine it with a humidifier, as air conditioning will dry out your home.
4. Hydrate
Drinking enough water is important for almost all our bodily functions. It is especially important for tear production. Tears consist of mostly water, so when there is not enough moisture, tears are the first thing to go.
5. Add Omega-3’s To Your Diet
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are important for your eye health. You can find these in fatty fish such as tuna or salmon, walnuts, flaxseed, and chia seeds. This helps when you need to keep your eyes well lubricated.
6. Stop Smoking
You likely already know that smoking is bad for your health. It also irritates your eyes when smoke blows into them. This makes you more susceptible to developing dry eye.
If you can quit, do it. This is the easiest way to get on the path to healthier eyes. It also reduces your risk of developing cataracts early on. Being around secondhand smoke can make you more likely to develop these conditions.
7. Use Eye Drops Correctly
Eye drops are a fantastic way to combat the effects of dry eye safely. There is a proper way to use them that many people don’t know about.
When it comes to eye drops, there is a right way to use them. You should not point the applicator into your eye and squeeze until your eye feels better. This can increase your chances of getting an eye infection.
When applying eye drops, create a pocket in the lower lid of your eye by pulling down on the skin just below it. With your other hand, point the applicator into the pocket.
Use only one drop at a time, so as not to overflow your eye. This can cause infectious germs to flow in from your eyelashes. Always wash your hands before applying eye drops and do not touch the tip of the applicator.
If these tips don’t work, you may want to consider seeing your eye doctor for treatment options. Treating your dry eye from the root is the best way to find long-lasting relief!
Schedule an appointment at New York Eye Specialists in NYC today to get relief for your dry eye!
