How do I take care of myself?
Living with dry eye isn’t easy. Many people experience stress, anxiety and exhaustion from trying to manage symptoms. If your condition affects your quality of life, talk to your healthcare provider. You may need to try many different treatments before finding an approach that manages your symptoms.
Keep in mind that millions of people have dry eye. So, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Connect with support communities online, and ask your provider for suggestions. Sharing your challenges with others who understand what you’re going through can be a huge help in your day-to-day life.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
Your ophthalmologist will tell you how often you need to come in for appointments. If other medical conditions are causing your dry eye, you may need regular follow-ups with other healthcare providers, too. Be sure to go to all of your appointments so your care team can monitor your condition and help you receive treatment.
Call your ophthalmologist if you experience:
- New symptoms.
- Symptoms that get worse.
- New side effects from treatments.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Dry eye disease can affect much more than the comfort of your eyes. It can affect your ability to work, socialize and enjoy life. Dry eye can take a toll on your emotions and your mental health, too. You may feel isolated, but you’re not alone. Connect with others who have this condition, and share your experiences. It takes patience and perseverance, but it’s definitely possible to find relief.
If your current treatments aren’t working, don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider. Tell them how you’re feeling and ask what other treatments are available to manage your condition and restore your quality of life.
FAQs
Symptoms of dry eyes often include blurry vision; eye redness; sensitivity to light; and a burning, gritty or scratchy feeling in your eyes. Dry eyes happen because the eyes do not produce enough tears or if the tears are not adequate quality to keep the eyes properly lubricated.
What is the most common cause of dry eyes? ›
Dry eye results from a variety of causes, but aging is the single highest factor. As people age, the production of tears decreases. Although it occurs in women and men, post-menopausal women are most affected.
What is the most effective treatment for dry eyes? ›
The most common treatment for mild dry eye is a type of eye drops called artificial tears. You can get these eye drops without a prescription. There are also over-the-counter moisturizing gels and ointments that may help your eyes feel better.
What do ophthalmologists recommend for dry eyes? ›
Treating Dry Eye by Adding Tears
Your ophthalmologist might tell you to use artificial tears. These are eye drops that are like your own tears. You can use artificial tears as often as you need to. You can buy artificial tears without a prescription.
Does drinking water help dry eyes? ›
You may not realize that if you have dry eyes, drinking more water and staying hydrated can make a big difference as part of a dry eye treatment plan. Drinking more water helps your eyes maintain a healthy tear volume, which is an essential part of keeping dry eyes and their symptoms at bay.
Is there a vitamin deficiency that causes dry eyes? ›
Vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency can cause dry eye symptoms. A study found that patients with dry eye disease had significantly lower vitamin D levels. In a study, Vitamin D supplements helped with immune function by reducing eye inflammation, promoting tear secretion, and improving tear quality.
How do you fix dry eyes ASAP? ›
How do you fix dry eyes ASAP? A person experiencing discomfort from dry eyes may get some immediate relief by stepping away from any screens, blinking, and using a warm compress over their eyes. They can also use any tear drops that a doctor has prescribed.
Does dry eye ever go away? ›
The symptoms may improve over time with treatment, but they may never go away completely. Chronic dry eye happens when your eyes can't produce or maintain enough tears for a healthy tear film. Chronic dry eye is often related to other health conditions like lupus, Sjögren's disease , diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
What can I drink for dry eyes? ›
Drinking plenty of water can help a lot when it comes to making tears. Staying hydrated is also good for your health, so be sure to drink enough water every day! Suffering from the symptoms of dry eye syndrome?
What is the best natural eye lubricant? ›
Virgin coconut oil is great for those with dry eyes, as it creates a protective layer over the tear film layers, resulting in reduced evaporation. Furthermore, coconut oil has antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
Systane is a trusted brand recommended by optometrists for those with dry eyes. As someone who's struggled with dry eyes, this product is also my usual go-to. The Systane eye drops work for up to eight hours and are ideal for dry, sensitive eyes.
What is the newest treatment for dry eyes? ›
Miebo. In May 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved perfluorohexyloctane ophthalmic solution (Miebo). It is a prescription eye drop that aims to target tear evaporation directly.
What are the worst symptoms of dry eye? ›
Dry eye is a condition that affects your tear film, the three layers of tears that cover and protect the surface of your eyes. You need a smooth and stable tear film to help you see clearly and comfortably. Disruptions to your tear film can cause uncomfortable symptoms like burning, itching, watering or blurred vision.
What fruits are good for dry eyes? ›
A variety of fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and other foods can help with dry eyes, including avocados, bell peppers, broccoli, oranges, eggs, cheese, salmon, lean beef, and brown rice. Following a nutritious diet is one essential part of making sure your eyes remain in good health.
What organ causes dry eyes? ›
What causes dry eye? Several factors can cause dry eye. Evaporation of water from the tear film can increase due to blepharitis/meibomian gland dysfunction.
Can dry eye be reversed? ›
Currently, there is no permanent cure for dry eye disease. However, several options can help maintain moisture in the eyes. These can reduce symptoms and protect vision.
