Lifestyle Changes for Managing Dry Eyes

When your eyes are too dry, it can cause discomfort and even affect your vision. It may also result in redness that affects the appearance of your eyes. Our eye doctors at Sites Vision Clinic in Clarksville suggest these lifestyle changes that can relieve or prevent dryness.

Hydration Tips

• Remember to drink enough water, starting when you wake up in the morning. Experts recommend drinking about nine glasses per day. Keep in mind that some fluids like wine and soda can actually promote dehydration. The same goes for high-sodium foods.
• Your diet plays a significant role in causing or preventing dry eyes. Make sure you consume enough vitamin A. Broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, and certain supplements provide this vital nutrient. Likewise, it's important to get enough omega-3 fatty acids. They come from sources like vegetable oil and walnuts.
• Try not to let air blow into your eyes. Wind, hair dryers, furnaces, space heaters, air conditioners, and fans can all increase dryness. Even if you stay away from them, they will make the air dryer. You may need to run a humidifier to counteract this effect during winter.
• Keep away from smoke. Fires, cigarettes, and some types of air pollution have the potential to dry out your eyes. Try to quit smoking, and do your best to avoid secondhand smoke. The benefits of avoiding smoke go far beyond eye care.
• Be careful how much time you spend looking at TV, phone, and computer screens. Remember to take a break or at least look away from the screen now and then. Blinking more often also helps. Be sure to do the same when reading books.

An Eye Doctor Can Help Treat Dry Eyes

If lifestyle changes don't solve the problem, visit an optometrist near you. The eye care experts at Sites Vision Clinic in Clarksville can examine your eyes and provide treatment or recommend other options, such as switching to different eyewear. To get started, call 931-647-5237 today.