5 Myths About Macular Degeneration, Debunked
Is driving, reading, or recognizing faces becoming challenging? Here are five myths about macular degeneration and what you need to know to make informed decisions about your eye health.
Tips for Managing Chronic Dry Eyes
Dealing with constant dry, irritated eyes can be frustrating. If you're dealing with this condition daily, you know how uncomfortable and disruptive dry eyes can be. Chronic dry eyes often lead to irritation, redness, and a gritty sensation that seems impossible to shake. But the good news is you can take steps to manage the symptoms and find relief.
Negrey Eye Associates in Havertown, Pennsylvania, offers diagnosis and treatment of dry eyes and the following tips to help you handle chronic dry eyes.
What causes dry eyes?
Dry eyes occur when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears they produce evaporate too fast. This can be triggered by things like aging, staring at screens for too long, certain medications, environmental factors, hormonal changes, or even autoimmune conditions. Knowing the root cause can guide the best approach to treatment.
How can you ease symptoms at home?
Relieving dry eyes starts with making a few changes to your daily routine. Adding more moisture to the air is a great first step. Using a humidifier in your living or work space can prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. Additionally, blinking more often when staring at screens can help, as extended screen time can reduce natural blinking.
It’s also essential to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help your body, including your eyes, stay hydrated. When your body is well-hydrated, it can produce tears more effectively.
Should you use over-the-counter treatments?
If you're looking for immediate relief, over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops might be the answer. Look for preservative-free formulas, as they tend to be gentler on sensitive eyes. Just be aware that relying on drops alone may not address the underlying issue in the long term. Call us to discover better treatment options if you rely on OTC drops frequently.
When should you see a doctor?
If you're experiencing persistent symptoms despite your best efforts, it may be time to visit our office. We can evaluate your condition and recommend prescription eye drops, punctal plugs, or even light therapy. These treatments aim to improve tear production or keep tears from evaporating.
It’s especially important to schedule an appointment if your dry eyes are accompanied by pain, significant vision changes, or if you suspect another underlying condition.
Diet and supplements for eye health
Believe it or not, your diet plays a significant role in eye health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, nuts, and seeds, help reduce inflammation and support healthy tear film. Vitamins A, C, and E are also important for eye health, so making sure to get enough of those nutrients is helpful.
Managing dry eyes
Managing chronic dry eyes can take some trial and error, but the good news is that several options are available. Whether you start by increasing your hydration, using a humidifier, or seeking professional treatments at Negrey Eye Associates, the key is to stay proactive.
Dry eyes don’t have to be a permanent part of your life — find the right mix of solutions that work for you. Call the office, or schedule an appointment online today.
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