Dry eyes are common, affecting about 12 million people in the United States, according to the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). The American Optometric Association (AOA) adds that most people older than 65 have dry eyes, which can burn, be red and itchy, and over-produce tears in compensation. This causes blurry vision. They are at increased risk of damage and infection. There are remedies for dry eyes, the correct course of treatment sometimes depending on the cause.
Home Remedies
Sometimes, home remedies and basic, preventative measures adequately treat dry eyes. The Mayo Clinic offers a few suggestions: Use a humidifier, particularly during the winter. Wrap-around sunglasses protect your eyes from the drying effects of the sun and wind. Artificial breezes may contribute to dry eyes as well, so avoid direct air flow such as that from vents and hair dryers. Stay out of smoky atmospheres, and deliberately blink frequently, as blinking naturally lubricates the eyes.
Adding Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter moisturizing eye drops often succeed at treating mild cases of dry eyes, the AOA says. Use eye drops on an as-needed basis, and even as a preventative measure. The AOA recommends products made without preservatives to minimize the chance of further irritation. Preservatives can also trigger allergic reactions, says the UIC, which points out that different people have varying success with different eye drop solutions. Inserts are also available that release artificial tears.
Retaining Natural Tears
Products and procedures retain natural tears in the eyes. Silicone plugs or cauterization seal the ducts that drain tears, the Mayo Clinic says. This remedy may lead to problems with excess tears, though, so sometimes a temporary test of this method is performed before being applied permanently.
Treating Eye Problems
Prescription medications such as cyclosporine increase tear production in some cases, according to the Mayo Clinic. The AOA adds that increased omega-3 fatty acid intake is believed to help boost tear production. Anatomical or other problems with the eyelids can cause dry eyes, and are remedied with plastic surgery. When inflammation causes dry eye symptoms, addressing the inflammation with medications, warm compresses, eyelid massage or other methods are often effective treatments, the AOA says.
Stopping Medication
Dry eye is a common side effect of many medications--including oral contraceptives, diuretics, antihistamines and nasal decongestants, blood pressure regulators, antidepressants, sleeping aids, some pain relievers, acne treatments and others, according to the Mayo Clinic. The UIC says that stopping these medications may be the best remedy for dry eyes.
