Have you ever felt an uncomfortable, gritty sensation in your eyes like something is stuck in them? Or maybe your eyes feel dry, but they’re watering at the same time? These are just a couple of the common symptoms of dry eye, and they can significantly impact your daily life.
At Advanced Vision Care in Mansfield, we talk to many patients who don’t realize that their dry eye symptoms could be more than just an inconvenience. It’s not just about feeling uncomfortable—untreated chronic dry eye can make it difficult to perform everyday activities, affect your vision, and damage the surface of your eyes. In this blog, we’ll explore common symptoms of dry eye, some home remedies, and advanced treatment options for more severe cases.
Common dry eye symptoms you might experience
If you’re unsure whether you have dry eye, the symptoms can include:
- A gritty or sandy feeling in your eyes
- Burning or stinging sensations, especially after long periods of reading or screen use
- Blurry vision that improves with blinking
- Redness or irritation
- Excessive tearing, even when your eyes still feel dry
These symptoms can vary depending on the severity of your dry eye condition. Some people experience discomfort occasionally, while others may struggle with it constantly (known as chronic dry eye). Regardless of the frequency or intensity of your symptoms, it’s important to address the problem before it impacts your eye health.
Home remedies & tips for dry eye relief
Home remedies and over-the-counter solutions may be effective for mild cases of dry eye or can help enhance the effectiveness of treatments you receive at your eye doctor’s office. If you’re currently experiencing dryness and discomfort, here are some remedies you can try:
- Use artificial tears: Over-the-counter eye drops can temporarily alleviate dry eye symptoms. Make sure to choose preservative-free options, as preservatives can sometimes irritate the eyes.
- Take screen breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a chance to refocus and relax.
- Apply warm compresses: A warm, moist cloth over your closed eyes can help loosen up the oils in your meibomian glands, promoting better tear production.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your body and eyes hydrated.
While these tips can help manage mild dry eye symptoms, they may not be enough if your symptoms are more persistent or severe. If that’s the case, advanced treatments could provide more lasting relief.
When should you see a professional for dry eye treatment?
Although over-the-counter (OTC) products like eye drops and warm compresses may offer short-term relief, they often don’t address the root causes of dry eye. If you’ve been using OTC products without lasting results or if you’re dealing with severe dry eye symptoms, it’s time to consult with a professional. Our team at Advanced Vision Care can conduct a comprehensive eye exam to determine the cause of your dry eye and recommend the most appropriate treatments for you.
We may suggest prescription eye drops or oral medications to help increase tear production or reduce eye inflammation. We can also recommend lifestyle changes, such as environmental adjustments and incorporating omega-3-rich foods into your diet, to prevent further irritation.
Let us help you find relief
Don’t let dry eye go untreated. Untreated dry eyes can lead to complications and affect your vision. With the right treatment and our expert care, you can protect your eyes from the adverse effects of dry eyes and get back to living life comfortably. Schedule your appointment online today and find the best solution for your needs.