Dry eye is a condition that develops due to the inadequate production of tears in your eyes. Dry eyes can also be caused by poor quality tears that do not provide enough lubrication for your eyes. The eye is a sensitive organ that should be taken care of more than you regularly do. Most of us don’t care enough for our eye and stare at computer screens constantly for hours without taking breaks. This is the most common cause that leads to dry eyes. This condition can also be temporary if you sit too long in an air-conditioned room, ride a motorbike without glasses, in an airplane, or expose your eyes too much to the wind. Dry eyes feel uncomfortable, itchy, and stingy. In some people, this condition becomes permanent and needs regular maintenance and lifestyle changes. There are various prevention and treatments for dry eyes.
This post lists down some useful tips to help prevent dry eyes.
1. Do Not Wear Contact Lenses Daily:
If you use contact lenses, you should take a break from lenses at least once a week and use glasses. Contact lenses can also dry the eyes so you should rest your eyes for a day or two. Not wearing lenses for once a week can help, especially if you already have dry eyes. Visit FloaterLaser to get the most effective dry eye treatment. Allow your eyes to breathe by taking a day off from wearing contact lenses. Glasses also keep the air from directly blowing into your eyes.
2. Take Breaks from the Computer Screen:
Most jobs today involve spending hours in front of the computer. Exposing your eyes to the screen for a long time leads to dry eyes. Screen exposure is one of the most common reasons for dry eyes. Computer screens also place strain on the eyes. Therefore, it is very crucial to take regular breaks from focusing on computer screens. After every hour, stop looking at the screen for a few minutes and blink your eyes frequently when you are working on the computer. Frequent blinks and short breaks help you retain moisture and prevent dry eyes.
3. Drink Plenty of Water:
Dehydration leads to low production of tears in your eyes. The dehydrated body increases your chances of getting dry eyes. When you are in a dry environment, it is particularly important to keep your body hydrated. If you are travelling on an airplane, humidity levels are usually lower than a dessert. Replenish your eyes and body by drinking plenty of water during your flight. Water keeps your body hydrated and eyes moist and comfortable.
4. Avoid Cigarette Smoke:
If you smoke or stay around cigarette smoke more often, this can irritate your eyes and cause them to lose moisture. While there are many other good reasons to quit smoking and avoid being exposed to second-hand smoke, you should also avoid smoking for the sake of your eye health. Regular exposure to cigarette smoke increases your risk of developing dry eyes. So, quit smoking and stay away from cigarettes.
5. Wear Glasses in Windy Areas:
Keep your eyes protected when you go to a windy area. Use wraparound glasses or sunglasses to keep the wind blowing directly into the eyes. If you let the wind blow into your eyes for a while, they can easily dry out. A hairdryer and direct exposure to the conditioned air can also make your eyes dry. You may also turn on your car heater on a cold day and sit in front of it until you get warm. Hot air can quickly dry your eyes. Avoid exposing yourself directly to the hot air.