Effective remedies for dry eyes

Dry eyes tend to develop when you are not producing enough tears or the tears are not lubricating the eye properly. Your eyes may feel irritated or gritty. People of any age can be affected, but older people, particularly women after the menopause, are more susceptible. The problem is made worse by dry or windy weather, chlorinated swimming pools, and air conditioning or central heating. Diabetes, and certain medications such as antihistamines, can also cause dry eyes, as can inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis).

Make an appointment to see your doctor to establish the cause of dry eyes.

Applying eye treatments
When using any eye treatment, apply it just inside your lower eyelid. Hold the end of the nazzle or dropper away from your eye to keep it clean.

Seek further medical advice if:
* You often have dry, uncomfortable eyes

* You develop any other symptoms

What you can do yourself
Try the following measures to relieve the discomfort of dry eyes.

* Blink frequently, particularly when you are focusing on detailed work for long periods. Take frequent rests if you are working at a computer.

* For occasional dryness, use artificial tears to moisten your eyes (see DRUG REMEDIES, right).

* Try using a lubricating ointment to keep your eyes moist at night (see DRUG REMEDIES, right).

* In centrally heated rooms, increase the humidity by using a humidifier, or place a bowl of water beside a radiator to keep the air
moist.

* Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day. Cut down on coffee, tea, and cola, as these drinks contain caffeine, which can dehydrate you.

* Wear goggles when swimming.

* Avoid smoky or polluted environments, which could further irritate your eyes.

* Fit side shields to your glasses, especially in windy or dry conditions.

DRUG REMEDIES
Artificial tears include drops containing hypromellose (see EYE LUBRICANTS, p 181), which keep the eyes moist and help to relieve itching. Gels containing substances called carbomers (see EYE LUBRICANTS, p 181) also keep the eyes moist and may be more convenient than drops because they do not need to be applied as often. Don’t wear contact lenses while using these products.
Lubricating eye ointment (see EYE LUBRICANTS, P 181) is applied at bedtime to lubricate the eyes through the night; Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable product.