Your eyes require moisture for lubrication and to spread antibodies for combating infections. Dry eyes result in discomfort and often itching. When your tear glands produce inadequate moisture, you are likely to experience chronic dry eyes. Swimming without eye protection, exposure to dry winds, and looking at electronic device screens for many hours are some causes of dry eyes. Luckily, you can treat symptoms of dry eyes using the various home remedies as listed below:
1. Warm eye compresses
Humans have used warm eye compress treatments for many years. Patients compress clean cloth, soaked in warm water, on the eyes. Close the eyes and hold the fabric until the pain subsides. This treatment relieves discomfort instantly. To use:
- Wash your hands thoroughly
- Use a soft clean cloth
- Use lukewarm clean water
- Compress the fabric on your eyes for some time for it to be effective.
2. Omega-3 supplements
Experts recommend using omega-3 acid supplements for treating dry eyes. You can use the medication at home without any side effects. You can also buy Omega-3 supplements over the counter. Benefits of using omega-3 supplements include:
- Prevents your eyes from degenerating
- Stimulates tears production that treats and prevents dry eyes
- Prevents age-related eye diseases
- Have general nutritional benefits to your body
3. Castor oil eye drops
Castor oil eye drops are effective in treating dry eyes because ricinoleic oil prevents tears from drying up and managing inflammation. For this oil to be effective, you should rub the castor oil drops on your eyes. Massaging the eyes helps the muscles to relax and ease pain. These will:
- Relieve pain
- Prevent dryness
- Get rid of wrinkles around the eyes
- It is an oxidant that prevents eye infection
4. Drink plenty of water
Drinking water helps to relieve dry eye discomfort. You should drink enough water every day, up to eight glasses, to avoid dehydration. If you have dry lips, a lingering headache and dry eyes, start drinking water regularly. Drinking water will:
- Promote tears production
- Wash excess salt, oil, and debris from your eyes
- Water has no side effects on your eyes
5. Natural tears eye drops
Natural eye drops are an effective over-the-counter solution that soothe the symptoms of dry eyes. You do not require a prescription to purchase the eye drops and these can be applied safely throughout the day, when needed, to restore moisture and comfort to the eyes. Always check the labels of the eye drops before you purchase to ensure they are made from natural ingredients. Some of the factors to consider include:
- A lubricating agent that will moisturize the eyes, such as natural oils like guar gum.
- Healing elements such as sodium to clear the burning.
- Natural preservatives to prevent infection over time.
