Have you ever noticed your eyes burning, watering, or feeling like sandpaper after a long day at the computer? Or maybe you put in your contact lenses only to take them out halfway through the day because the irritation became too much. These symptoms are all signs of dry eye.
Dry eye may seem like a minor inconvenience, but what starts as a small nuisance can quickly turn into a daily struggle if not addressed. That’s why many people seek dry eye treatment in Delaware, Ohio—not only to get relief but also to prevent symptoms from becoming a chronic issue.
In this blog, we’ll cover common causes of dry eye, simple home remedies, and when to consider professional care.
What causes dry eye?
Dry eye can develop for many reasons—aging, hormonal changes, or certain medical conditions. It can also be triggered by factors like:
- Side effects after LASIK
- Prolonged screen time
- Wearing contact lenses for long hours
- Seasonal allergies or dry environments
Getting to the root of your symptoms is key to lasting relief. A comprehensive eye exam with our experienced eye doctors in Delaware, OH, can uncover whether your irritation is situational or if it points to a chronic condition.
Signs of chronic dry eye
Occasional dryness is common, but if symptoms stick around or become more severe, it could be a sign of chronic dry eye. Watch for:
- Persistent redness or burning
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Excessive tearing that doesn’t resolve the dryness
- Mucus around the eyes
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably
- Feeling like something is stuck in your eye even when it’s not
Recognizing these signs early can help prevent worsening discomfort and protect your vision in the long run.
When eye drops aren’t enough
If irritation keeps returning, over-the-counter drops may not be enough. Professional care can address the root causes of dryness.
Depending on your needs, dry eye treatment may involve therapies that improve tear quality, relieve blocked oil glands, or adapt your lens wear schedule. Incorporating these treatments into your daily routine helps keep your eyes healthier, clearer, and more comfortable.
Lifestyle changes for dry eyes
Along with professional treatment, lifestyle adjustments can help relieve dry eye symptoms. In some cases of mild dryness, these changes may be enough to keep your eyes comfortable and healthy. Consider the following strategies:
- Take screen breaks: Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen for 20 seconds and blink fully to reduce strain.
- Control your environment: Use a humidifier, avoid direct airflow from fans or air conditioning, and minimize exposure to smoke or dust.
- Stay hydrated and eat for eye health: Drink plenty of water and include nutrients that support tear production, such as omega-3s.
- Protect your eyes outdoors: Wear wraparound sunglasses to shield your eyes from the wind, dust, and UV rays.
- Mind your blinking habits: Consciously blink fully, especially during long periods of reading or using devices, to keep eyes lubricated.
Even small adjustments like these can help ease irritation, improve tear stability, and enhance the results of professional dry eye treatment. Combining these habits with guidance from our eye doctors at Kristin L. Campbell OD gives your eyes the best chance for lasting comfort.
Protect your eyes with personalized care
Ignoring dry eye can affect not only your comfort but also your vision and quality of life. At Kristin L. Campbell OD, our eye doctors provide personalized care, education on home remedies, and access to helpful products such as supplements, dry eye relief masks, eyelid cleansing wipes, and eye drops.
With the right support, you can find lasting relief and keep dry eye from turning into a chronic concern. Schedule an appointment today to get started on a care plan that fits your needs.