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How do I Fix My Dry Eyes?

Dry eye syndrome is an uncomfortable condition that develops due to tears not being as effective as they should be in the eye. There are a variety of causes of dry eyes, including windy or hot environments, contact lenses, medication side effects, medications like antihistamines or antidepressants, and autoimmune disorders that may reduce the production of natural oils in the eyes. These factors can lead to painful symptoms that are important to recognize so that you can quickly and effectively treat dry eyes.

Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eyes

1. Discomfort in one or both eyes
2. Itching
3. Burning sensation in the eyes
4. Excessive tear production, even during the day
5. Discharge from one or both eyes, which may be yellowish and sticky
6. Blurred vision that has a sandy feeling to it.

6 Ways to Fix Dry Eyes

1. Take supplements

The eyes need vitamins A, B, and C to function properly. Vitamin A is necessary for the eye’s ability to produce tears. B6 is needed for oil production, and vitamin C is needed for collagen production. Take a good multivitamin that contains these three vitamins daily. You can apply retinaldehyde or vitamin A topically as well. Fish oil also helps lubricate the eyes since it contains omega-three fatty acids that lubricate the eye tissues.

2. Wear sunglasses

A good pair of UV-resistant sunglasses help to protect your eyes from wind, dust, and cold air. It can help reduce blurring as well as keep your eyes comfortable.

3. Use artificial tears

Use artificial tears if the dryness is making your eyes uncomfortable. Artificial tears have fewer preservatives than normal saline and a different pH level that helps the eye accept them better. Some artificial tears are made with omega-3 fatty acids, which lubricate the eye tissues. You can also use a saline drop or an eyedrop every 2 hours to help keep the tear film moist.

4. Apply lubricants

Lubricants are helpful when your tear film is irritated. They contain a polyvinyl pyrrolidone that coats the eye and lashes, which helps provide a layer between the eye and the surface of your eyelids. Many lubricants are also soothing for dry eyes, particularly products containing aloe vera or chamomile extract.

5. Take an over-the-counter antihistamine

Over-the-counter antihistamines like loratadine or fexofenadine can help lubricate your eyes and decrease the amount of irritation you have. However, taking them over a few weeks may cause your dry eyes to become worse. If the dryness persists after trying these medications, contact your doctor for prescription medication.

6. See an Ophthalmologist

Visit Kung Eye Center if the above methods don’t help relieve your dry eyes. They’ll prescribe more potent medications that can help keep your eyes moist and prevent long-term complications like corneal ulcers. Always ask for a referral to an ophthalmologist, as most will require one to get their services or medicines covered by insurance.

Schedule a Consultation

Even though several factors can cause dry eyes, there are always ways to treat them. If your dry eye persists after trying these at-home remedies, schedule a consultation at one of Kung Eye Center’s two offices in New York or New Jersey. You can also use the online form and one of our physicians will be happy to answer any questions you have and give you more treatment suggestions.

Request an Appointment

Please call our New York office at (929) 429-2928 or our New Jersey office at (732) 724-2535 with any questions you may have.

STATEN ISLAND, NY EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ