Dry eyes can occur for a number of reasons, ranging from heat, wind and humidity to chronic dry eye ailments and complications from plastic surgery. Dry eyes can be uncomfortable when blinking, but their dryness can also increase the rate of your blinking. Tear ducts do not function as well, making it more difficult for your eyes to lubricate themselves naturally. But there are numerous treatment options available.
Use Artificial Tears
Artificial tear drops can be purchased over the counter from drugstores. While the effects of a single dosage only last a short period of time, tears can be reapplied to your eyes throughout the day to improve lubrication and eliminate dryness. If you apply artificial tears frequently throughout the day, the Mayo Clinic recommends using ones that don't contain preservatives, otherwise limit yourself to four applications daily. Artificial tears should also be the type that does not include a redness remover, which can sometimes exacerbate eye dryness. Dry eye ointments are also available and provide the same relief as eye drops, but they can blur vision and should be applied only before going to bed.
Lid Management
Various eyelid problems can cause or worsen dry eyes, including an abnormal development of a blinking motion that does can completely cover the eyes. In these cases, an eye surgeon can work on your eye to resolve the issue through minor surgery. When eyelids are dry due to inflammation from blepharitis, you can routinely clean the eyelid with a solution of baby shampoo diluted in water. Some other short-term remedies available through your doctor include antibiotic drops and ointments. Oral antibiotics are also an option that may be prescribed.
Medications
The generic drug cyclosporine is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that can effectively treat chronic dry eyes. This medication reduces inflammation on the surface of the eye and boosts healthy tear production. It can cause a slight burning sensation when used but doesn't pose any health risk, although it should not be used if you have an eye infection or a history of herpes infections in the eye. In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe a steroid to treat any inflammation.
