Dry eyes can make life miserable. You blink and squint, and your eyes feel gritty. It is like having sand in your eyes all day long. If you live in Spring, Texas, you know this feeling too well. The hot, dry climate does not help. But do not worry; there is hope.
Understanding Dry Eyes
Dry eyes occur when your eyes make insufficient tears or when they evaporate too rapidly. This leaves your eyes without their natural lubrication.
In Spring, Texas, the weather plays a big role. Hot, dry air speeds up tear evaporation. Windy days make it worse. Air conditioning can dry out your eyes, too.
Symptoms of severe dry eyes include:
- Burning or stinging sensation.
- Redness.
- Light sensitivity.
- Blurry vision.
- Feeling like something is in your eye.
Here are some possible treatments for chronic dry eyes:
Over-the-Counter Remedies
For mild cases, over-the-counter eye drops can help. These mimic your natural tears and provide quick relief. But be careful; some contain preservatives that can irritate your eyes if used too often.
Gel drops or ointments work well for nighttime use. They are thicker and coat your eyes longer. But they can blur your vision. That is why they are best for bedtime. Some artificial tears work better than others. So, try a few brands and see what works best for you.
Prescription Treatments
For severe dry eyes, you might need something more effective. Your eye doctor can prescribe medicated eye drops. These do more than lubricate. They help your eyes produce more of their tears. Prescription eye drops can take time to work, and you might not see results for a few weeks. Be patient and keep using them as directed by your eye doctor.
In-Office Procedures
Sometimes, drops are not enough. That is when in-office procedures come in handy.
One option is punctal plugs. These tiny plugs block the ducts that drain tears from your eyes. This keeps tears on your eye surface longer.
Another treatment is LipiFlow. This procedure unblocks oil glands in your eyelids and helps your natural tears work better. Many patients in Spring find relief with this treatment.
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is gaining popularity, too. It treats inflammation around your eyes, improving tear production.
Lifestyle Changes
Do not underestimate the power of simple lifestyle changes. In Spring’s climate, these can make a significant difference. Use a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air. You should also wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from wind and dust.
Do you spend lots of time staring at screens? Take breaks from screen time after every 20 minutes or so and look at something about 20 feet away for more than 10 seconds. It would also help to stay hydrated.
Nutrition and Supplements
Certain nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids can help your eyes. They can help reduce inflammation and improve tear production. You can get them from food or supplements.
Vitamin A is beneficial, too. It helps keep your cornea healthy. That said, consult your doctor before starting any new supplements. They can interact with medications.
With patience and the right treatment, you can beat dry eyes, even in challenging climates. Your eyes will feel better, and you will see more clearly. You will enjoy Spring’s beauty without the discomfort.
For more on dry eye syndrome, visit Family Vision Solutions at our Spring, Texas, office. Call (713) 349-0224 to schedule an appointment today.
https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-eye/treatments-for-chronic-dry-eye
