Keep your eyes hydrated! Understanding and treating dry eye

Published on 7 August 2024

Have you ever felt that irritating itching, burning or gritty sensation in your eyes? It could be dry eye. This is a common problem affecting many people, especially in our digital world, where heating and cooling systems are part of everyday life. Today, we explore dry eye to understand what it is and how we can treat it.

What causes dry eye?

Tears are much more than water: they are a complex mixture of water, oil and mucus that keeps our eyes lubricated and protected. When this tear film becomes unbalanced, dry eye can develop. Common causes include:

Environmental factors: dry air, wind and air conditioning can make tears evaporate faster than normal.
Excessive screen use: spending long hours in front of computer, tablet or mobile phone screens can reduce blinking frequency, leading to faster tear evaporation.
Ageing: as we age, our tear glands may produce fewer good-quality tears.
Medical conditions: health problems such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or autoimmune disorders may be associated with dry eye. In women, menopause also changes tear quality, making dry eye more likely.

How can we relieve dry eye?

Lubricating drops: artificial tears are like a balm for your eyes. They can provide instant relief and help keep your eyes hydrated.
Blinking more often: if you work in front of a screen, remember to take breaks to blink regularly. This helps spread tears evenly over the eye's surface.
Humidifiers: if the air in your home or workplace is dry, consider using a humidifier to increase the moisture in the air.
Eye protection: wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and the elements when outdoors.
Consult a specialist: if you experience chronic or severe dry eye, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist. They can recommend more advanced treatments, such as punctal plugs or prescription medicines.

Do not ignore dry eye: it can affect your comfort and long-term eye health. With a little attention and care, we can help keep our eyes healthy, hydrated and ready to face the day. At Clínica Castellote we can help you; please contact us if you suffer from this condition. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram if you would like to learn more about your eyes.