Best Treatments for Dry Eyes
By Lana Bandoim
When you have dry eyes, trying multiple treatments is common. It is easy to go through an entire shelf of eye drops at the store without finding relief. Consider the following treatment options before buying another box of eye drops.
Prescription Medications
In some cases, prescription medications are necessary to treat dry eyes. Unfortunately, over-the-counter eye drops may not be enough to get rid of this condition. The prescription medications include eye drops to reduce eyelid inflammation or to control corneal inflammation. There are also tear stimulating drugs that can help.
New Contact Lenses
There are contact lenses designed for dry eyes that may help. If you regularly wear contact lenses, talk to a doctor about trying a different brand that works better for dry eyes. Another option is scleral lenses or bandage lenses that are designed to trap moisture.
Eye Massage
Eye massage encourages tear production. Massage the lids of the eyes gently several times a day to prevent dry eyes. You can also use a warm washcloth to massage closed eyelids. It is better to do this exercise for 10 or more seconds.
Light Therapy
Intense-pulsed light therapy is another treatment option. A special laser is used to stimulate the glands responsible for tear production in the eyes. This painless treatment does not require any surgical or invasive procedures.
Special Eye Drops
Regular eye drops may not be enough to treat severe dryness. Instead, consider using lubricating eye ointments or gels that are able to coat the eyes. These special eye drops are thicker, but they provide lasting relief.
Fatty Acids
Eating more omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids helps some people prevent dry eyes. These essential fatty acids are necessary for the body to function properly, and studies show they can affect the glands in the eyes. The omega-3 fatty acids are found mostly in fish such as sardines, salmon and herring. The omega-6 fatty acids are in seeds, nuts and vegetable oils.
Closed Tear Ducts
In severe cases, it may be necessary to close the tear ducts so the eyes do not lose tears. Small plugs are inserted into the ducts that drain tears. There are different types of plugs that can be used during the procedure. Some are permanent, and others dissolve over time or can be removed.
You do not have to suffer with dry eyes. Consider discussing one of these treatments with a doctor to find relief. There are multiple ways to treat eye dryness.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.