Do your eyes often feel scratchy, irritated, or tired? You may be experiencing symptoms of dry eye syndrome. This common condition occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. While a professional evaluation is vital to proper treatment, there are many steps you can take at home to help manage and relieve dry eye symptoms. Here are seven practical household hacks that might make a difference.
7 Top Tips
1. Use Artificial Tears Regularly
One of the easiest and most accessible ways to manage dry eyes is using over-the-counter artificial tears. These lubricating eye drops mimic your natural tears, providing much-needed moisture and relief. Be sure to choose preservative-free drops if you need to apply them frequently, as preservatives can sometimes irritate with overuse. For the best results, use artificial tears throughout the day to maintain moisture and prevent discomfort before symptoms worsen.
2. Try a Warm Compress
A warm compress can help soothe dry, irritated eyes and stimulate the glands that produce tears. Soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it over your closed eyes for about 5-10 minutes. This can help to improve tear quality by loosening any blockages in the oil glands along your eyelids, which play a critical role in preventing tears from evaporating too quickly.
3. Adjust Indoor Humidity Levels
Did you know that dry indoor air can worsen dry eye symptoms? If the air in your home is too dry, it can cause your tears to evaporate more quickly, leaving your eyes feeling gritty and dry. A simple solution is to use a humidifier, especially in winter, when heating systems can further dry out the air. Keep the humidity in your home at around 40-50% to maintain comfortable moisture levels.
4. Blink More Frequently
If you spend a lot of time staring at screens—whether it’s a computer, phone, or TV—you might be blinking less than you should. This can lead to eye strain and dryness. Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently, especially when working or reading for extended periods. A good rule of thumb is to follow the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes, look away from your screen at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps to refresh your eyes and reduce dryness.
5. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, as your body needs plenty of fluids to produce tears. Make sure you drink enough water throughout the day—about 8-10 glasses is a good general target. Staying well-hydrated can help improve tear production and keep your eyes feeling more comfortable.
6. Eat Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help improve tear quality and reduce inflammation in people with dry eyes. You can increase your intake by adding foods like salmon, flaxseed, walnuts, and chia seeds to your diet. Alternatively, consider taking an omega-3 supplement, but consult your doctor or optometrist before starting any new supplements.
7. Clean Your Eyelids Gently
Sometimes, dry eye symptoms are caused by blepharitis, which involves inflammation of the eyelids and can block the oil glands essential for healthy tears. To help manage this, clean your eyelids gently each day. Use a warm, damp washcloth or a specially formulated eyelid cleanser to carefully wipe away any debris or oils that may be contributing to irritation.
When to Seek Professional Help
While these household hacks can help relieve mild dry eye symptoms, persistent or worsening dryness may require professional care. If you’re struggling to find relief, you must schedule a visit with your optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam. At AEG Clearvue Vision Center Integration, we specialize in advanced dry eye treatments tailored to your needs.
For more information on our dry eye treatment options, such as LipiFlow, visit our dry eye treatment page.