You may have dry eyes if your eyes sting and burn, look red, or feel gritty—as if some sand is stuck in them. This condition occurs when the tiny glands in and around your eyelids (the meibomian glands) don't produce enough tears to keep your eyes healthy and vision clear. Tears play a crucial role in maintaining eye health by keeping the surface of the eye smooth, comfortable, and hydrated while also washing away dust and debris and protecting against infection.
Healthy eyes make tears all day, every day, to stay moist. However, certain diseases, medications, or aging can cause fewer tears in your eyes. Dry eye can also happen when your eyes don't make the right type of tears to keep the surface well-lubricated.
At Mohawk Eyecare, we understand the discomfort dry eyes can cause and offer various treatments to help. Let's explore some effective home remedies that can relieve and improve eye comfort.
Can Natural Remedies Relieve Dry Eyes?
Various home remedies for dry eyes can help maintain moisture and comfort in your eyes. Here are some detailed descriptions of effective at-home treatments:
Using a Humidifier
Dry indoor air can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Using a humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help keep your eyes from drying out. Place a humidifier in your bedroom or living area to maintain a comfortable humidity level, especially during the winter when indoor heating can reduce moisture in the air.
Lid Massages
Massaging your eyelids can help stimulate the glands that produce tears. Use a bit of baby shampoo or mild soap on your fingertips and gently massage your closed eye near the base of your eyelashes. This can help reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
Blink More
Staring at screens can reduce blinking frequency, leading to dry eyes. Follow the 20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, close your eyes for 20 seconds. This helps keep your eyes moist and reduces strain. Position your screen below eye level to minimize tear evaporation.
Eat Omega-3 Rich Foods
Incorporate foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, walnuts, and flaxseed, into your diet. These healthy fats help the oil-making glands in your eyes function better, easing irritation and keeping your eyes lubricated.
Create Your Own Homemade Dry Eye Remedies
Use A Warm Face Compress
A warm face compress can help relax your eyes and loosen clogged oils in your eyelids. To make one, soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it over your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. The moist heat helps to relieve irritation and improve tear quality.
Make A Hydrating Smoothie
Blend spinach, kale, a banana, a handful of flaxseeds, and almond milk or coconut water to create a hydrating smoothie. This drink is rich in omega-3s and antioxidants, promoting overall eye health and providing hydration.
Severe Dry Eyes? Our Procedures Can Help
If you experience persistent dry eyes, getting the right care is essential. Prescription eye drops can help increase tear production and reduce inflammation, providing long-lasting relief.
For those needing more specialized care, Mohawk Eyecare offers innovative therapies:
Radiofrequency Treatment
Radiofrequency treatment is a quick and painless procedure that uses controlled heat to stimulate the meibomian glands (the oil-producing glands in your eyelids). This helps enhance tear quality and reduce dry eye symptoms.
Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy targets inflammation and abnormal blood vessels, addressing the root causes of dry eye syndrome. This advanced treatment alleviates symptoms and promotes long-term ocular health by improving the function of the glands in the eyelids.
MeiboVue Meibographer
At Mohawk Eyecare, we use a high-resolution camera and infrared LED technology to take clear and detailed images of the meibomian glands. This allows our expert eye doctors to accurately assess the gland’s health and functionality, identifying any abnormalities or signs of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). This device helps diagnose dry eye syndrome, and tracks changes over time, helping us tailor personalized treatment plans and monitor their effectiveness.
Physician Recommended Nutraceuticals (PRN)
We offer a variety of PRN products to our dry eye patients. These high-quality supplements contain natural ingredients specifically formulated to support eye health. PRN products are backed by clinical research and trusted by eye care professionals worldwide.
Consult Mohawk Eyecare for Severe Dry Eyes
While natural remedies for dry eyes can provide relief, it's important to consult with our optometrists for severe or persistent symptoms. At Mohawk Eyecare, we offer personalized consultations and advanced treatments to help you manage dry eyes effectively. Book an appointment with us in New Castle for tailored advice and solutions to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.