The term “dry eyes” has more to do with tear production that eye condition. When you have dry eyes, you may feel a stinging, burning or feeling gritty sensation in one or both eyes. This is because your eyes stop producing enough tears to keep them hydrated. Tears are essential to keep your eyes smooth and comfortable as well as remove debris and dirt from time to time.
With that being said, evidence suggests that some foods that are rich in nutrients that keep dry eyes at bay. They also have a beneficial role in the body other than hydrating the eyes. If you like these foods, eat them with or without dry eyes. Other remedies for dry eyes include but not limited to warm compresses, eye protection and much else:
1. Warm compresses over eyes
In some cases though, your doctor may prescribe medication to treat the condition as well as for underlying medical issue. The medication will be helpful in preventing tears from draining away too quickly. However, we are talking about natural remedies, ones that you can do at home at your own pace. Warm compress is one of them. Inflamed eyelids due to dry eyes tend to clog the oil-making glands. When warm compress is used (clean washcloth immersed in warm water), the irritation will ease and clogged glands will loosen hence removing the oil and dirt collected in these glands. Repeat this procedure for every hour or until the pain is reduced. moist from the washcloth can help loosen up the clogged oils as well as soothe the skin around the eyes.
2. Fish oils
Fish oil and supplements are some of the best remedies for dry eyes. Fish such as tuna, salmon, sardines mackerel and trout are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Healthy fats from these fish keep the eyes healthy while easing the irritation during dry eyes. Foods that are also rich in Omega-3’s fats include but not limited to nuts, beans, hemp seed oil and other vegetable oils. Supplements in the form of pills and liquid can be ingested on a daily basis or as prescribed by your physician. Just make sure that they don’t cause adverse reaction due to other medications or underlying health conditions.
3. Hydrate those eyes
Water is the main ingredient of tears and just like the rest of the body, drinking water can keep eyes hydrated and produce tears in sufficient quantity. However, it is important to drink water very often and not wait until you are thirsty or the eyes are irritated. Aim for at least eight glasses of water. Restrain from drinking too much coffee or tea as this will dehydrate the body especially eyes increasing the severity of dry eyes. Fruit juices and drinks containing healthy ingredients can keep your eyes moist faster than any other medication. Aim for a wide variety of fruits and better yet choose water rich fruits such as watermelons and oranges.
