Tears are necessary to cleanse the eyes. Specialized glands located near the eye secrete tears. Tears consist of water ( moisture), oil (lubrication of the eye), mucus( helps even spreading). In case, there is an imbalance in the production of tears, it caused dryness of the eyes.
People who suffer from dry eyes experience, itching, burning sensation and irritation. One experiences scratchiness, redness, blurred vision which tends to improve with blinking
Aging and severe weather conditions, air-conditioning in the room, windy climates, cigarette smoke can cause dryness of the eyes. How to treat them?
Home Remedies for Dry Eyes
Primary Home Remedies for Dry Eyes are:
- Do not rub the eyes.
- Blink the eyes. It helps in spreading the tears evenly. Important while watching T.V. reading a book or working on a computer.
- Purchase an air filter to pull out the dust as well as other particles from the air.
- Keep a check on the indoor humidity. If the air happens to be dry in the house, use a humidifier.
- Do not direct car heater, hair dryers, or fans towards the eyes.
- Wear sunglasses.
- If using contact lenses, wear than for lesser hours each day. Consult your physician.
- Use water proof eye-makeup. This reduces the irritation in the eyes.
- Consume essential fatty acids such as Omega 3 oil, flax seed oil, or evening primrose oil. Essential fatty acids keep the eyes lubricated.
- Eat foods that are rich in vitamin A. This keeps the eyes moist.
- One can go in for artificial tears. They can be bought over-the-counter.
- Tear replacement ointment can be used at night.
- One can apply warm compresses on the dry eyes.
- Avoid medicated eye-drops.
- Splash water in the eyes.
Dry eyes can cause much irritation. One needs to take care of such eyes. Consulting your eye practitioner also helps.
