Helpful Home Remedies for Dry Eyes

The term dry eyes is pretty self explanatory. Tears, like any other liquid, can evaporate. When this happens, the eyes become irritated, causing burning, itching, sensitivity to light, blurry vision, or eye fatigue in one or both eyes.

As a contact lens wearer, I can tell you that this increases your chance of developing dry eyes. By the end of the day, I would be pulling out my bottle of artificial tears for some quick relief. Below are some other simple home remedies that worked for me.

Remember to Blink
If you spend most of the day staring at a television screen, computer monitor, or even just reading, you need to remember to blink. Blinking helps spread our natural tears evenly over our eyes. Taking small breaks and blinking can help prevent dry eyes.

Keep the Air Moist
Dry air can cause your eyes to dry out. Most heating and cooling sources will pull the moisture from the air. Use a humidifier at home and at work if possible, to help keep the humidity at normal levels.

If you don't have a humidifier and need some relief, try boiling a pot of water. The steam from the water will help add moisture to the air.

Warm Compress
Another home remedy for dry eyes, is to cover them with a warm compress. Wet a towel or rag with warm water and cover your dry eyes for several minutes. Doing this a few times each day will help keep your eyes from becoming dry.

Artificial Tears
Artificial tear drops can be purchased over-the-counter at your pharmacy. Using these drops a couple of times each day can help prevent dry eyes.

Avoid Air Blowing in or Around Your Eyes
Don't sit in front of a fan or air conditioner. Always point your hair dryer away from your face. If you have to be outside on windy days, wear glasses to protect your eyes. Air blowing into your eyes will cause them to dry out.

Dry eyes can cause blurred vision. Use caution and common sense before driving a motor vehicle. Be sure to keep some artificial tears with you, so that you can use them before getting behind the wheel. If this doesn't help, call a cab or a friend to come and get you.

These home remedies, as well as some preventive measures, can help you alleviate some of the annoyance caused by dry eyes. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult your physician for a more in-depth evaluation.