Dry eyes can be very uncomfortable, resulting in eye irritation and burning. The pain is sometimes due to a lack of tear production or poor-quality tears. In addition, several other causes of the condition include medications, prolonged screen work without blinking, sensitivity to dry air or smoke, aging, and contact lenses. The feeling is uncomfortable regardless of the cause. But don’t worry; below are some tricks and tips on soothing and relieving your dry eyes naturally. Even better, you can refer to Dry Eye Directory to learn about dry eyes remedy.
1. Cleaning Eyelids For Clarity With Eyelid Wash:
Clean eyelids are an important step to improve tear quality. Mix a mild cleanser, such as baby shampoo, with your hands to create a foamy mixture. Close your eyes and then gently massage the lid rim with the cleanser. Then rinse the area with warm water. You should pay special attention to areas with cosmetics or facial lotions that can irritate your eyes. After washing your eyelids, use a warm compress to restore moisture.
2. Warm Compression To Improve Blood Circulation
Warm compresses can help improve blood circulation around your eyes by stimulating tear production to relieve your eyes of dryness. They also stimulate the drainage of accumulated oils from the eyelid glands, improving the tears’ quality and relieving eye discomfort. To do this, soak dry, lint-free clothing in warm water, rinse it, and place it on your closed eyes for about seven to ten minutes. Afterward, soak the compress in warm water once it cools down. Repeat this procedure several times a day for a few days or until you get relief from the dryness.
3. Incorporate Omega-3 Into Your Diet To Nourish Your Eyes From Within
Essential fatty acids are important to avoid dry eye syndrome. Consuming omega-3 fatty acids can help increase tear production through eye lubrication. You can include omega-3-rich foods such as sardines, salmon, flaxseed, and anchovies in your diet. Omega-3 supplements such as fish oil tablets can also provide similar benefits.
4. Use Coconut Oil As A Protective Layer:
Virgin coconut oil protects the eyes from dryness by forming a layer on the tear film and reducing evaporation. It has several health properties, especially anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral properties. Dip a piece of cotton in coconut oil for a few minutes and apply it to your closed eyelids to reap its benefits. Repeat this process several times a day until your eyes experience relief.
5. Increase Caffeine Consumption
In moderate amounts, caffeine can help relieve dry eyes by stimulating secretion from the lacrimal glands. However, high caffeine consumption can lead to adverse reactions such as irritability, nervousness, and insomnia. Research shows that taking caffeine tablets equivalent to 2-6 cups of coffee stimulates tear production. On the other hand, caffeine may act as a moderate diuretic in some people, which may exacerbate dry eye problems.
6. Use Sunglasses To Protect Your Eyes
Use wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation and extraneous stimuli, especially in dusty, windy, or UV-rich environments. Quality sunglasses can protect your conjunctiva, the protective covering of the eye, from swelling and redness caused by contact with hazardous substances.
7. Change Your Environment
Dry eyes can result from dry air, strong wind, dust, smoke, air conditioning, and pollution. Consider using a cold air humidifier and avoid sitting directly in front of air conditioners to help alleviate these environmental issues.
Bonus Tips To Relieve Dry Eye Symptoms:
Below are additional tips to relieve dry eye symptoms;
Consider Blinking More
Promote tear flow by consciously blinking during the day, especially when sitting at a computer screen for long periods.
Limit Your Alcohol Consumption
Limit or avoid alcohol intake to avoid dehydration, which can affect tear quality.
Stop Smoking
Smoking cigarettes doubles your chances of developing the disease and strains your eyes. Giving up cigarettes or avoiding smoke-laden rooms may prove beneficial.
Consume More Water
Adequate fluid intake is important for healthy tears, eye wellness, and overall eye well-being.
You can care for and refresh your eyes by incorporating these simple and natural solutions into your daily routine. Take advantage of the cleansing effects of eyelid rinses, omega-3 fatty acid nutrition, the renewing tenderness of compresses, the protective shield of coconut oil, and the stimulating effects of coffee. Combine these therapies with environmental adaptations and conscientious eye care for the best results. Remember that while the soothing secrets of nature can give your eyes the relief they deserve, it’s equally important to engage a competent eye doctor to assess your condition and provide a solution to the root source of your problem.