Dry eyes don’t usually point to something serious, but they can be quite annoying!
If your eyes feel sore, itchy, red, or more watery than normal, they could be dry. But this phenomenon may also be characterised by blurry vision, unusual sensitivity to light, or a gritty feeling when you blink. All these signs could mean that your tears are drying up too quickly!
What causes dry eyes?
Dry eyes are caused by irritation. This can be triggered by an array of environmental and pathological factors and could be a symptom of an existing health condition. A few of the most common causes of dry eyes include:
- Cold, windy, or dusty environments
- Wearing contact lenses for extended periods
- Looking at computer screens without a break
- Smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol
- Taking certain medications (for example, some blood pressure drugs)
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you might also experience dry eyes. According to Allergy UK, at least a quarter of adults in the UK are affected by hay fever, which often manifests with a dry throat, sneezing, and itchy skin too.
How to alleviate dry eyes
If your eyes are a little bit uncomfortable and they’ve only just started to feel dry, it’s unlikely that you’ll need to see a doctor straight away. If you can still do all your usual activities, it’s worth just monitoring your dry eyes.
There are a few things you can do to help feel some relief in the meantime:
Replace your contact lenses
Wearing the same pair of contact lenses for too long is a common cause of dry eyes.
Try not to choose the cheapest option either: it’s worth taking time to order toric contact lenses online if you’re struggling with discomfort or bleary vision. These are widely recommended contact lenses for astigmatism, which is the term used for rugby ball-shaped eyes.
Stay hydrated
Your whole body needs water to stay healthy, including your eyes.
Drinking enough water throughout the day helps to keep your eyes moist, so don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. It’s recommended to aim for between 6 and 8 glasses of water every day. Sugar-free and low-fat drinks will also provide effective hydration: just make sure you’re avoiding caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as these can cause the opposite effect.
Using a warm compress
Tears consist of water, oils, and mucus, and all three parts are needed for healthy eyes.
If your eyelids are flaky or inflamed, they might start to clog the oil-secreting glands along your eyelids. To calm this irritation and free up any clogged oils, hold a cloth under warm water and then dab it over your eye for a few minutes. The heat helps to loosen clogged glands and reduce inflammation.
When should I see a doctor about dry eyes?
If your eyes have been dry and irritated for a long time, it could be time to speak to a healthcare provider. Whether you make an appointment with your GP or call into the local pharmacist, a professional opinion could point you in the right direction for speedy relief.
