Medical Edge Newspaper Column

Remedies for Dry Eyes

November 12, 2007
Readers:

Dry eyes are caused by a lack of tears or of certain tear components and can make your eyes feel hot and gritty and appear irritated.

Reduced tear production occurs naturally with age but may also be caused by a medical condition or by the side effect of certain drugs. You may be able to reduce that dry, gritty feeling by:

• Applying artificial tears: You can use these lubricating drops as often as needed to provide relief. Use preservative-free eyedrops to avoid an allergic or toxic reaction.
• Using a special lubricant in your eyes when you sleep: These eye ointments can temporarily blur vision, but they work well at night to keep your eyes moist over longer periods.
• Keeping air moist: Try to keep humidity between 30 percent and 50 percent.
• Avoiding air blasts: Don't direct hair dryers, car vents or fans toward your eyes.
• Shielding your eyes: Wear wraparound glasses on windy days.
• Remembering to blink: Consciously blinking repeatedly, for example, while reading, helps spread your own tears more evenly.

If these tips don't help, see an ophthalmologist to discuss other options.

— Mayo Clinic Health Letter