Suffering from Dry Eyes? You Won't Believe What Could Cause It
Recently, I discovered just how common dry eye syndrome is after hearing of several people besides myself experiencing this issue. It turns out it's one of the main reasons people visit eye doctors. Here are the symptoms and treatments.
(Illustration photo: shutterstock)Recently, I discovered just how common dry eye syndrome is after hearing of several people besides myself experiencing this issue. It turns out that dry eye syndrome is one of the most common reasons people visit eye doctors, and in rare cases, it can even lead to vision loss.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include burning sensation, itchiness, decreased tear production, redness and pressure, chronic fatigue, uncontrolled eyelid closure, blurry vision, confusion between letters while reading, and more.
Symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:
- Hormonal changes (especially decreased estrogen in women)
- Sudden changes in the digestive system
- Aging
- Eyelid problems
- Daily use of contact lenses
- Extended work and long hours in front of computer screens
- Smoking
- Side effects of various medications
- Allergies
- Weather conditions: such as wind
- Antidepressant medications
- Cold medications and nasal decongestants
- High blood pressure medications
- Watching TV
How to treat it?
Conventional method: Health funds typically recommend eye drops with chemical compounds such as 'Systane' to lubricate and moisturize the eye, thereby improving the aforementioned discomforts. Although these drops can be bought without a prescription, it is essential to consult a doctor before using them.
Alternative method: 1. Apply tea compresses on your eyes for at least half an hour. Tea soothes the eyes and is excellent for treating inflammation and eye pain. Fresh, moist cucumber compresses can also work effectively.
2. Wet compresses: Take a soft towel, wet it with warm water, and place it on your eyes for 15 minutes. Repeat several times a day.
3. A humidifier – not just for infants struggling to breathe: Use a humidifier at night to create more humidity in the air and keep the eyes moist.
4. Nutritional supplements and vitamins excellent for treating dry eyes include: flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil, omega-3, turmeric, mint, berries, fennel seed infusion.
