Dry eye occurs when the tear ducts don’t produce enough liquid to lubricate the eyes, causing itchiness, redness, and cloudy vision. Symptoms can occur because of environmental factors, such as pollution, or wearing contacts for too long. Medications, including sleeping pills and antihistamines, also lead to dryness. Luckily, proper vision care helps you stay comfortable. If you have this condition, use these tips to avoid irritation.

4 Vision Care Tips for Dry Eyes

1. Reduce Exposure to the Elements

Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from wind and dust when you’re outdoors. 

In your home, avoid standing too close to drying agents, such as fans and hair dryers. If you need to use a blow dryer, allow your hair to dry as much as possible first, then apply eye drops to stay comfortable. Set the appliance to the coolest mode since hot air causes more dryness.

2. Keep the Air Moist

Inject moisture into the air in your home by running a humidifier. Moisture in the air also encourages healthy tear production.

Keep the humidity level between 30 and 60%, running the device in your bedroom if you frequently wake up with dry eyes. Refrain from smoking in your home since tobacco contains chemicals that contribute to irritation.

3. Apply a Warm Compress

Stimulate tear production by placing a warm compress over your eyes every day. Warmth increases the production of oils that have lubricating abilities.

Use the compress every morning and night for 10 minutes each time, washing your face after use to avoid inflammation. 

4. Eat Eye-Friendly Foods

Omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), reduce inflammation. Consume more foods containing these fatty acids, such as flaxseed, salmon, and sardines. Found in leafy greens, lutein and zeaxanthin also improve overall eye health.

If you experience dryness, visit the eye doctors at Medical Eye Associates, S.C. With convenient locations in Mukwonago, Waukesha, Oconomowoc, and Wauwatosa, WI, this vision care center has maintained a reputation for efficient and friendly service since 1939. They offer diagnostic tests to measure tear production and give patients prescriptions to manage symptoms. Call (262) 547-3352 to make an appointment, or learn more dry eye online.