Tips for seniors suffering from dry eyes

What is dry eye?

Dry eye occurs when your tear glands do not produce enough tears to keep your eyes lubricated. This condition can be unpleasant and painful. Both medical and environmental factors can contribute to it.

How does aging cause DES (dry eye syndrome)?

The amount of tears produced by the lacrimal gland naturally decreases as we age. This can result in insufficient water (aqueous) production and have a significant impact on the eye's ability to retain moisture.

What exactly is dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is a catch-all term for dry eyes caused by either poor tear quality or decreased tear production. The symptoms are:

• scratchy, dry, and painful sensation in both eyes, as if something is in them

• redness

• mucus in or near your eyes

• sensitivity to light

• fatigued vision

• vision impairment

How to Avoid Dry Eyes

Aside from using eye drops or ointment, there are a few simple things you can do to help prevent dry eyes.

 These are some examples:

Avoid areas where there is a lot of air movement.

This includes limiting your exposure to fans and hair dryers, as well as wearing wraparound sunglasses on windy days to keep your eyes from drying out.

In the winter, use a humidifier.

Home heating systems can dry out the air in your home, as well as your eyes. However, using a humidifier can help keep the air moist. If you don't have a humidifier, you can add water to the air by placing a pan of water on your radiator.

Relax your eyes.

Frequent reading, TV viewing, and computer use can cause your eyes to dry out, so take breaks to allow your eyes to rehydrate.

Smoking should be avoided.

Cigarette smoke can irritate dry eyes and raise the risk of developing them in the first place.

Apply warm compresses to your eyes, then wash them.

Applying a warm compress to your eyes and then washing your eyelids with baby shampoo aids in the release of oil from the glands in your eyelids. Make certain that the soap is completely removed from your eyes to avoid any irritation.

Consider taking an omega-3 fatty acid supplement.

Some people report relief from dry eyes after incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into their diet. These are naturally found in foods such as oily fish and flax seeds, but they can also be purchased as liquid or pill supplements.

The takeaway:

Dry eye is a common and chronic condition that is frequently treatable at home. Sometimes home remedies and over-the-counter medications are insufficient to treat dry eyes. Prescription eye drops and ointments may be required to alleviate your dry eye symptoms. Speak with your eye doctor if you are suffering from chronic pain and irritation from dry eyes that are interfering with your daily life.

Disclaimer: Healthy Wrinkles does not recommend or offer any medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. The information provided here is only for the awareness of disease or ailment among individuals, caregivers, and the public‌. The advice of doctors, licensed professionals, or therapists who are knowledgeable about your particular situation should always be sought before using the information provided here. It should also not be used in the event of a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. If you want urgent assistance, contact a qualified medical professional. Additionally, the information represents the author's views and not those of Healthy Wrinkles.