Dry eye is a condition that not only results in surface irritation of your eye, but can also cause episodes of blurred vision. Non-medicated artificial tears may provide relief from these symptoms, but you may still have discomfort unless you frequently instill eye drops. You may need to find an alternative treatment to aid in relief. One option is omega-3 fatty acids, and knowing the possible benefits may help you reduce discomfort.
Benefits
Many symptoms of dry eye, such as redness and irritation, stem from inflammation of the conjunctiva, the outer tissue layer that covers the white of the eye and the underside of the eyelids. Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation on the surface of your eye, and this could also reduce the accompanying symptoms that result from dry eye, the Mayo Clinic explains.
Dietary Sources
Your body does not make omega-3, so you need to have a daily intake of these essential acids. Many foods can provide you with omega-3, such as ground flaxseed, walnuts, salmon, tuna and mackerel. Other sources include flaxseed oil, canola oil and soybean oil.
Supplements
Certain supplements will also provide you with the omega-3 you need to help relieve dry eye symptoms. Doctors commonly recommend fish oil capsules, but you may also use flaxseed oil capsules as well. Your doctor can help you determine the appropriate dosage.
Artificial Tears
In addition to increasing your intake of omega-3, you may need to use artificial tears to help relieve surface irritation and other symptoms. Artificial tears do not contain medications, but provide a nourishing tear that will moisten the surface of your eye. You can use these eye drops as often as necessary, but if you use them frequently, you may wish to use preservative-free drops to reduce your risk of a reaction.
Considerations
Discuss using omega-3 with your doctor. She will help you determine a dose that is appropriate for reducing dry eye symptoms, as well as taking into consideration your overall health. Do not consume high amounts of omega-3 without first discussing this change with your doctor because high doses of omega-3 could interact with medications or health conditions. Omega-3 may increase the blood-thinning properties of medications like warfarin and may also interfere with the effectiveness of some drugs used to treat diabetes.
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