The eyes produce tears to remain moist and lubricated. When something interferes with the amount or quality of tears produced, the result is dry eyes. According to the University of Illinois, about 12 million Americans suffer from the condition and the associated burning, stinging and scratchiness. Without treatment, dry eyes may lead to permanent vision problems. The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that tear production decreases naturally with age, with post-menopausal women suffering from dry eyes more frequently than any other group. Prompt treatment can alleviate irritation and protect the eyes from scarring and other problems.
Use Artificial Tears
Artificial tears, which are available in drop form in most pharmacies, replace the eyes' natural tears to restore lubrication and prevent irritation. For mild or moderate cases of dry eyes, artificial tears may be the only treatment needed to effectively control symptoms. The University of Illinois states that artificial tears are also available in the form of dissolving inserts that are placed onto the surface of the eyes.
Check Your Medicine Cabinet
Many common prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause dry eyes, states the Mayo Clinic. Common drugs associated with dry eyes include diuretics, antihistamines, decongestants, some antidepressants, ACE inhibitors, sleeping pills, birth control pills, certain acne medications and opiate pain relievers. A change in medication or dosage may be all that is necessary to alleviate the symptoms of dry eyes.
Hold On to Your Own Tears
Preventing the evaporation of the eyes' natural tears can help alleviate many of the symptoms of dry eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends using a humidifier indoors, wearing wraparound glasses and avoiding overly warm or dry rooms. Undergoing a procedure to place plugs into the channels through which the tears drain can keep the eyes moist for longer periods. The Mayo Clinic also suggests avoiding direct sources of wind, such as car heaters, fans, air conditioners and hair dryers, to prevent tear evaporation.
Eat More Fish
Regular intake of essential fatty acids may help improve the symptoms of dry eyes, notes the American Optometric Association. Supplementation with fish oil or flaxseed oil can boost daily intake when dietary sources are insufficient. The Mayo Clinic states that research is ongoing into the benefits of using topical omega-6 and omega-3 in the treatment of dry eyes.
Do Not Be Fooled By Watering Eyes
It may sound illogical, but watering eyes are a common symptom of dry eyes. This is because the eyes produce tears in response to irritation. When the eyes become dry, a large volume of tears is produced to flush and lubricate the eyes, says the American Academy of Ophthalmology. These tears are produced so rapidly that they overflow from the eyes and run down the face. Watery eyes may benefit from the addition of artificial tears.
Explore Surgical Options
In some cases, dry eyes are caused by an incomplete blink or structural abnormality, such as an outward or inward turning of the eyelids. Eye surgery can correct most abnormalities and permanently eliminate dry eyes, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Do Not Ignore Dry Eyes
While most people with dry eyes experience no long-term health or vision complications, chronic and severe dry eyes can lead to infection, eye inflammation or scarring of the corneas. For these reasons, dry eye symptoms that persist after trying home treatments require medical evaluation. If an underlying medical cause is discovered, treatment may relieve eye symptoms permanently.
