Simple Ways to Relieve Dry Eye

Do you frequently get itchy or burning eyes? Does your vision fluctuate during the day or do you feel like you have a foreign object in your eye? If so, you may be one of the 20 million of Americans who suffer from dry eye. For many patients, taking a few simple steps can go a long way toward alleviating symptoms and reducing irritation. The world-class optometrists at Laser Eye Center offer the following suggestions to help minimize dry eye-related discomfort:

Eye Drops

Regular application of over-the-counter drops can simulate tears and offer relief. Our doctors recommend selecting drops that do not have preservatives, since these are more likely to irritate your eyes in the long term. Eye drops that specifically advertise eliminating eye redness can similarly add to dry eye irritation.

Use a Humidifier

Adding moisture to indoor environments like your home and office can go a long way toward reducing the frequency with which you experience dry eye. A purifier that pulls dust from the air can have a similar effect.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

This nutrient found in oily fish has been proven to help make your eye glands more productive, thereby relieving irritation. If you are not a fan of seafood, there are other ways to consume omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts, flaxseed and supplement pills available at most health stores. 

Take Short Screen Breaks

Even if your job requires you to stare at a computer screen all day long, it is a good idea to take brief breaks. Every 20 minutes, try to look away from the screen and stare at a blank (non-digital) surface like a wooden cabinet for about 30 seconds to give your eyes a refresher. That and frequent blinking should help to prevent your eyes from drying out.

Invest in Vigilant Eye Hygiene

As dry eye is a chronic and progressive condition, Laser Eye Center offers the latest in dry eye technology named iLux. Similar to a deep cleaning at the dentist, iLux  is a proven method for reducing the potential for dry eye as well as for tackling the condition in order to alleviate its difficult symptoms.

iLux uses heating and gentle expression to loosen up the oils trapped in your glands.  By reducing these existing blockages, your eyes should be able to better produce a healthy tear film through optimal meibum or oil production, ultimately offering the necessary formula to achieve lubricated eyes. Treatments are safe and quick, andhave proven successful with over 90% of our dry eye patients.

Make an Appointment

To discuss chronic dry eye with the doctors at Laser Eye Center in Los Angeles, please schedule an appointment by calling (800) 805-2737. Our team is committed to helping you be more comfortable.