Is Dry Eye Syndrome Treatable with Only Lifestyle Changes?

September 27th, 2022

Staying on top of your dry eye syndrome can be the difference between manageable and unbearable. In the early stages, simple lifestyle changes may be able to alleviate many of your symptoms. 

If the eye condition worsens, you may need help or guidance from a professional in addition to continuing your current treatments. 

Keep reading to learn if dry eye is treatable with only lifestyle changes!

What Lifestyle Changes May Improve Dry Eye Symptoms?

In mild cases of dry eye syndrome, you may be able to manage your symptoms with minor changes to your lifestyle. If you have noticed symptoms of dry eye, such as redness, irritation, or blurry vision, try some of these changes to your lifestyle to see if there is any improvement in your symptoms.

Use a Humidifier

A humidifier can add additional moisture to the air, which can help improve your eyes’ ability to maintain lubrication. It’s best to position the unit in the place you spend the most time. 

For some, it’s where they work, and for others, it’s in the bedroom.

Drink More Water

Staying hydrated helps your whole body function better, which includes your eyes. The benefits of ensuring you are adequately hydrated are numerous.

Ask your doctor how much water is recommended for you to stay adequately hydrated. It may be a good idea to keep a glass or water bottle handy and sip throughout the day.

Use Artificial Tears

Often the first method of treatment for dry eye syndrome is increased use of artificial tears. Artificial lubricating drops can help your eyes stay moisturized and compensate for the lack of lubrication that your natural tears provide.

Your eye doctor can recommend which brands to try. Read the labels to understand the different kinds available. 

Nighttime gels are thicker and may cause blurry vision, so apply them just before you go to sleep.

Reduce Your Screen Time 

When you’re on a computer or mobile device, you naturally blink less. This can cause your eyes to dry out. 

Do an audit of how much time you spend on a screen, and think about ways you can cut back and preserve your eyesight.

Break For Blinks

If you have to be on a computer for long periods, help your eyes by taking frequent breaks. Set a timer to pause every so often to blink for a few seconds. 

Another option is to make it part of your routine, like blinking twice each time you read to the end of a page. 

Warm Compresses 

The heat and moisture from a washcloth soaked in water, wrung out, and placed over your eyes is soothing and can help produce oils necessary for proper lubrication. Doing this twice a day may help improve your symptoms.

Lid Scrubs

Following the warm compress, scrub your eyelids gently with a fresh washcloth or Q-tip. Wet either with warm water and a few drops of diluted baby shampoo. 

If your dry eye needs more attention, there are over-the-counter eyelid scrubs, cleansers, and wipes to soothe inflamed eyelids. 

Breakup with Makeup 

Dry eye symptoms may occur due to irritation of the lids or infection. For this reason, your eye health may have to take priority over makeup. 

Take a break when you can from eye makeup like eyeliner, mascara, or anything that comes in contact with your eyelids. 

Seek Additional Help

In some cases, lifestyle changes may not adequately resolve your symptoms. If this is the case, let your eye doctor at Laser Eye Center help develop a treatment plan to improve your symptoms.

Is it time to see your eye doctor for help to improve your dry eye symptoms? Schedule an appointment at Laser Eye Center in Huntsville, AL, today!