Are your eyes constantly dry and irritated? Does it feel like you have grit or sand in your eyes? If this sounds like you, you might have dry eye syndrome. Many people suffer from this condition, and it’s more than an inconvenience. If left untreated, severe cases of dry eye can lead to corneal damage and even vision loss. Fortunately, there are ways to find relief and protect your eyesight.
Identify the underlying cause
To effectively treat dry eyes, it’s important to understand the underlying causes. Some common factors that can contribute to dry eye include aging, hormonal changes, environmental factors like smoke or wind, certain medications, and medical conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases. By identifying and addressing these root causes, we can better manage your symptoms and improve your overall eye health.
Stay hydrated
One of the simplest ways to combat dry eyes is by staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your eyes healthy and lubricated. If you struggle to drink enough water, try setting reminders on your phone or carrying a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go.
Try artificial tears
For many people with occasional or mild dry eye symptoms, it’s enough to regularly use over-the-counter artificial tears. These eye drops help relieve dryness and irritation by adding moisture to your eyes. It’s important to choose eye drops that are preservative-free and specifically formulated for dry eyes. Our team can recommend the best option for your unique needs.
Make lifestyle changes
Along with using artificial tears, there are other lifestyle changes you can make to improve your dry eye symptoms. Taking breaks from screen time and practicing the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) can help prevent eye strain and dryness. You can also try using a humidifier at home or work and incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet through foods like salmon, flaxseed, or walnuts. Additionally, avoiding irritants like smoke or allergens can reduce inflammation and discomfort.
See a specialist
If over-the-counter treatments aren’t providing enough relief, our dry eye specialists in New Hartford and Avon can recommend more advanced treatment options such as prescription medications or in-office procedures like intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. These treatments are tailored to address specific underlying causes of dry eyes and provide long-lasting relief for our patients. We also offer special contact lenses called scleral lenses to help keep your eyes moisturized.
Don’t let the discomfort of dry eyes interfere with your daily life any longer. With the expert care and guidance of our dry eye specialists at Avon Vision Associates and New Hartford Eye Associates, you can find relief from your symptoms and improve your overall eye health. Schedule an appointment with us today to find the best treatment for your dry eyes.