What are dry eyes?
Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes can’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance can lead to inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, dry eye can be chronic, but with the right measures, it can be managed effectively.
What are the symptoms of dry eyes?
Dry eye can be uncomfortable and often presents with several signs. Common symptoms include:
- Stinging or burning sensation: A persistent sensation of something being in your eye.
- Redness: The whites of the eyes may appear red and inflamed.
- Sensitivity to light: Bright light can cause discomfort or pain.
- Blurry vision: Vision may become intermittently blurry.
- Watery eyes: This might sound weird but, dry eyes can cause excessive tearing as the eyes try to compensate for dryness.
What causes dry eyes?
Several factors can contribute to dry eye, especially during a heatwave. These include:
- Environmental conditions: Hot, dry, and windy conditions can accelerate tear evaporation.
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to decreased tear production.
- Air conditioning: While it cools the air, it also reduces humidity, which can dry out the eyes.
- Ageing: Tear production tends to decrease with age, particularly in postmenopausal women.
- Screen time: a long persistent use of computers, smartphones, and other digital devices reduces blink rate, which can exacerbate
dry eye symptoms .
How to prevent and manage dry eye during a heatwave
Managing dry eye, especially during extreme heat, requires a combination of good habits and home remedies. Here are some effective strategies:
Keeping yourself hydrated is of the utmost importance
One of the simplest and most effective ways to combat dry eye is by staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain adequate tear production. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and increase your intake if you are spending time outdoors or engaging in physical activities.
Humidifiers can be of good help
Air conditioning and indoor fans can strip moisture from the air, contributing to dry eye. Using a humidifier adds moisture back into the air, creating a more eye-friendly environment. Place a humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time, especially your bedroom and living room.
Learn and follow the 20-20-20 rule
Long exposure to screen time can worsen dry eye symptoms. To give your eyes a break, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice helps reduce eye strain and encourages blinking, which can improve tear production.
(Representational image)
Wear sunglasses
Protect your eyes from the harsh sun and drying winds by wearing sunglasses. Choose sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Wraparound styles are particularly effective as they prevent wind and debris from irritating your eyes.
Apply warm compresses
Warm compresses can help stimulate tear production and relieve dry eye symptoms. To make a warm compress, soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and place it over your closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes. This can help unclog oil glands in the eyelids, improving the quality of your tears.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can also help manage dry eye. These healthy fats, found in foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties that can improve tear quality and reduce symptoms. A study published in the International Journal of Ophthalmology found that omega-3 supplementation significantly improved dry eye symptoms in participants.
Avoid direct airflow
Direct exposure to fans, air conditioners, or car vents can dry out your eyes. Try to avoid sitting directly in the path of these airflow sources. If unavoidable, adjust the vents to direct air away from your face.
