Dry eyes are a condition of inadequate tear production or excessive tear evaporation. It can be caused due to many conditions like vitamin A deficiency, contact lenses, allergies, or medications such as oral contraceptives and antidepressants. It presents as the sensation of a foreign body in the eyes along with itchy and stinging eyes, pain, redness, thick stringy discharge, and increased sensitivity to bright light. Severe dryness can interfere with day-to-day functions like working on the computer, staying in an air-conditioned environment, etc. The tear film is essential for the smooth functioning of the eyes. Dryness predisposes the eyes to many other ocular problems like corneal ulceration, which may affect the vision in the long term.

What Can You Do for Your Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can be a nuisance. The constant itching, foreign body sensation, and burning pain in the eyes may arise at any point. Here are a few home remedies for dry eyes that you can follow on a daily basis to reduce the severity of symptoms. However, it is important that you perform these under the supervision of your doctor and with correct precautions to prevent damage to the eyes.

1. Castor Oil

Castor oil contains Ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties. It relieves the burning sensation caused by dry eyes. Put one to two drops of pure, organic castor oil in both eyes, two to three times a day.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a high fatty acid content, which can provide the required lubrication for the eyes. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. For best results, use 100% pure extra virgin coconut oil. Add one drop to each eye twice a day.

3. Foods Rich in Omega 3

You can obtain omega 3 fatty acids from various food sources like chia seeds, almonds, salmon fish etc. Fish oil is one of the richest sources of omega 3 fatty acids and like other mentioned sources, it too promotes good ocular function, improves vision, and increases tear film secretion. You can consume around 1000-2000 mg of it in a day. Add these to your daily diet if you tend to suffer from dry eyes on a regular basis.

4. Yogurt

Dry eyes can be caused due to micronutrient deficiency. Yogurt replenishes vitamin B and D, thereby improving the lacrimal gland function. Consume at least one to two cups of yogurt per day.

5. Cucumber

Cucumbers are very effective for natural treatment of dry eyes. Put a cucumber in the freezer for a few minutes. Cut 2 thin slices and place it over your eyes. Repeat this 2 to 3 times a day. Cucumbers have abundant water content and are also rich in vitamin A, which is very effective in improving tear secretion.

6. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is rich in ethyl acetate, which has anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes the lacrimal gland and increases tear secretion. It also protects the eyes from free radical damage due to its antioxidant properties. Take a pea-sized amount of aloe vera gel and apply it on your eyelids. Do this twice a day for best results.

7. Warm Compress

This is one of the easiest home remedies for dry eyes. Take a clean towel and dip it in warm water. Now, remove the excess water and place the towel over your eyes. Warm compression increases the temperature around your eyes, which causes the blood vessels to dilate. This will make the gland produce more quality tears and thicken your tear film.

Prevent Your Eyes from Getting Dry?

1. Keep Hydrated

It is important to replenish litter in your body and prevent dehydration. Drink at least 2-2.5 liters of water per day.

2. Wear Sunglasses

Apart from making you look cool, sunglasses act as a barrier against drying air currents which can worsen the condition. They also decrease the intensity of light entering your eyes and, therefore, should be used if you are sensitive to bright light.

3. Stay Out of Windy Places

Dry winds will deplete the tear film further and make your symptoms worse. It would be a good idea to avoid windy places until your condition is relieved.

4. Keep Blinking

Make sure to blink voluntarily as blinking will help to replenish the tear film from time to time.

To Conclude

Dry eyes can be caused due to many conditions like vitamin and mineral deficiency, use of contact lenses, and medical conditions. There are effective dry eyes home remedies like castor oil, coconut oil, warm compression, and omega 3 fatty acid supplements. Keep yourself hydrated and avoid dry, windy places while suffering from dry eyes. To explore more on dry eyes and their home remedies, refer to the video link below.