Got Dry Eyes? Avoid These Bad Habits for Ultimate Comfort
Dry eye syndrome, also known as dry eye disease (DED), is a frustrating condition affecting over 16 million Americans— and that only accounts for known cases. Millions more, who have not been officially diagnosed, experience dry eye symptoms on a regular basis. If you experience sensitivity, burning, redness and stinging in the eyes, you could have DED as well. What’s more, you could unwittingly be making your symptoms worse by participating in habits that are bad for dry eyes.
If left untreated, dry eyes can get worse and may even lead to serious complications, such as loss of vision. There are also numerous bad habits that can exacerbate the condition, including smoking, air exposure, not using eye drops and ignoring symptoms. More than an inconvenience, this condition can cause serious problems.
Ignoring Symptoms
Dry eyes may seem like a minor, albeit uncomfortable, condition that you can learn to live with. But you shouldn’t. Ignoring dry eye symptoms or failing to seek treatment can have devastating consequences. In addition to eye infections, some may subsequently experience inflammation, corneal abrasion, corneal ulcer, vision problems or even loss of vision and a decreased quality of life. So ignoring symptoms should not be on the table. And if it has been, it's time to take it seriously.
Smoking Cigarettes
People who smoke are nearly twice as likely to experience dry eyes as their tobacco-free counterparts. Why? Smoke is a known irritant. When it gets into the eye, it can worsen the symptoms of dry eye and may make eyes even dryer — exacerbating the problem. Although it can affect anyone, contact lens wearers are most at risk. Those who are exposed to second-hand smoke are also vulnerable.
Too Much Air
Air from an air conditioner, heater, fan or even a windy day can dry out the tear film, resulting in dry eyes. This means that seemingly innocent actions — driving with the windows down, sleeping with a fan on or cranking up the heat on a cold day — can make dry eyes worse. For this reason, those with chronic dry eyes should probably avoid all situations where air is blowing on or around their eyes.
Not Using Eye Drops
There is no cure for dry eye syndrome. However, it is treatable with over-the-counter or prescription eye drops. Some people make the mistake of not using eye drops, which can cause complications. Others use the wrong type of eye drops.
Those who are unsure which eye drops they should use, or who feel like their current drops are making their symptoms worse, should speak with an eye doctor. There are prescription remedies available for those who need them. That being said, preservative-free eye drops are generally recommended.
Not Diving Deeper
In some cases, DED can be caused by medications or certain underlying medical conditions. So it may be worth looking beyond the optometrist for the cause. Those who have recently acquired dry eyes should be sure to speak with a doctor about any underlying causes such as collagen vascular disease, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis and antihistamine use among other things.
Dry eyes are uncomfortable and irritating, but symptoms can sometimes improve with appropriate steps to avoid exacerbating habits or seek treatment. it may help to quit smoking, avoid blowing air, use eye drops and speak to a doctor about any underlying conditions or medications that may be exacerbating the condition. Above all, though, be sure to never ignore the symptoms of dry eye. Doing so could cost you your vision.
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