Dry eyes can be a real nuisance. They can sting, itch, and feel like something is stuck in them. But did you know your lifestyle can contribute to how dry your eyes are? Many factors can affect the moisture levels in your eyes, including your work environment, diet, and even how much time you spend looking at screens. This article will explore how your lifestyle can affect eye dryness and what you can do to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
1. Work Environment
Your work environment can significantly impact eye moisture levels. If you work in an office with air conditioning, this can dry out the air, making your eyes feel dry and scratchy. Additionally, if your job requires you to stare at a computer screen for long periods, this can also contribute to eye dryness. When you focus on a computer screen, you may blink less often, which can lead to dry eyes. If you work in a dry or dusty setting, this may contribute to eye dryness.
2. Diet
What you eat on a daily basis can affect eye moisture levels. Not getting enough essential fatty acids, such as omega-3s, can lead to dry eyes. Omega-3s can help reduce inflammation and improve tear production. Foods high in omega-3s include fish, nuts, and seeds. Additionally, not drinking enough water can also contribute to eye dryness. Dehydration may cause you to produce fewer tears, leading to dry eyes.
3. Screen Time
Spending too much time looking at the computer or smartphone can contribute to eye dryness. By starting at a screen, you will tend to blink less frequently, leading to dry eyes. Moreover, the blue light produced by screens can disrupt your sleep, leading to eye fatigue and dryness.
To reduce eye strain, try taking frequent breaks from your screen, using the 20-20-20 rule, which involves looking away from your screen every 20 minutes and focusing on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
4. Contact Lenses
Contact lenses can absorb your tears, making your eyes feel dry and uncomfortable. Additionally, if your contact lenses are dirty or old, this can also contribute to eye dryness. To reduce eye dryness, clean and replace your contact lenses regularly. Additionally, consider using eye drops specifically designed for contact lens wearers.
5. Medications
If you’re taking antihistamines, decongestants, or antidepressants, these can all affect tear production and lead to dry eyes. Additionally, some medications can cause dry mouth, contributing to eye dryness. If you’re experiencing eye dryness and are taking medication, talk to your doctor about possible alternatives.
The Bottom Line
Eye dryness can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are many lifestyle factors that you can control to help keep your eyes moist and healthy. By staying hydrated, avoiding environmental factors that can dry out your eyes, having a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress levels, you can reduce your risk of eye dryness and promote overall eye health. If you are experiencing persistent or severe eye dryness, consult your eye doctor for an evaluation and treatment options.
Dry Eye Shop offers a dry eye therapy mask designed to help treat and prevent dry eye symptoms. The mask is made of a comfortable and breathable material that reduces tear evaporation, increases tear production, and reduces inflammation. Get yours today!
