Dry eyes can affect anyone. In fact, the condition affects an estimated 33 million people in the United States each year. While certain immune disorders can cause dry eyes, the use of antibiotics, diuretics, ulcer medications, birth control pills and blood pressure medications can cause the condition to develop or worsen. Prescription medications are available to relieve the symptoms, but if you prefer a more holistic route, natural healing remedies are available, too.
Identification
Also known by its clinical name keratoconjunctivitis sicca, the dry eye condition arises from a lack of tear production.The lack of tears causes inflammation and drying of the mucus membranes that cover the eyeball and inner eyelids. Dry eyes can sting and burn and also make your eyes feel itchy and sensitive to light. Blurred vision and eye fatigue can also accompany dry eyes.
Solution
Diet and nutrition play a large role in the natural healing of dry eyes. Following a healthy diet plan that includes fruits and vegetables can help keep your eyes healthy. Drinking plenty of water can also naturally relieve your dry eye problems. According to All About Vision, even a mild case of dehydration can worsen your dry eye problems. If you are a woman with dry eyes, approximately 91 oz. of water will meet your daily requirement. For a man, 125 oz. should suffice.
Potential
Omega-3 fatty acids may help relieve your dry eye symptoms. The Mayo Clinic reports that omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in vegetable oil, sardines, mackerel, tuna and salmon, have the ability to reduce inflammation. Other natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids are walnuts, flaxseed and chicken eggs from organically raised chickens given omega-3 rich feed. Omega-3 fatty acids are also available in nutritional supplements sold in pharmacies. Speak to your physician about adding omega-3 fatty acids to your daily diet.
Considerations
When it comes to the natural healing of dry eyes, environment is an important consideration. Because dry eyes are lacking lubrication, it is important to avoid anything that is going to cause any further dryness. Steering clear of overheated rooms or areas that contain cigarette smoke can help to avoid exacerbating your dry eye problems. Areas where the wind is whipping up dirt, dust or sand are also places that you may want consider avoiding if you have dry eye. Wetting a soft cloth, such as a washcloth, in very warm water and placing it over your eyes until it cools can provide relief.
Warnings
If you have dry eye it is important to understand that the condition may signal a more serious medical problem. Dr. Emily Senay, medical correspondent for the CBS Early Show, explains that diabetes can cause dry eyes. Also, the dry eye condition can leave your eyes susceptible to corneal infections, corneal scarring and ulcers of the eye that can cause permanent damage to your vision. Your ophthalmologist is the best person to make a dry eye diagnosis and help you decide how to relieve your symptoms and prevent eye damage.
