Whether you live in a city with a dry climate or one known for its incredible winds, your environment can affect your dry, burning eyes.
Dry eye may occur when our eyes do not produce enough tears. Cold temperatures, dry outdoor air and dry indoor heat can all lead to symptoms of dry eye. In a study conducted by The Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation, researchers found that almost half of the patients surveyed reported that seasonal conditions like hot, dry summers or cold, windy winters had a high impact on their dry eye symptoms.
To make matters worse, according to a Shire-sponsored US-only survey of 1,001 adults with self-reported dry eye or dry eye symptoms, 61 percent of adults believe that their eye health is only fair or poor.
So, how do you minimize the impact of your environment to help keep your eyes healthy without packing up and moving on? Here are five steps to take today:
Protect your eyes
If you’re outdoors on a windy day, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the drying effects of the wind suggests the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Drink water
We all know staying hydrated is a great thing to do for your body—but it’s also great for your eyes! It’s a simple, refreshing way to fuel your body.
Use a warm washcloth
A warm compress can help with tear release says the American Academy of Ophthalmology. By applying a warm washcloth on each eye for two to three minutes as a self care routine, you can help your eyes create the moisture they need.
Eat well
A well balanced diet with omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the symptoms associated with dry eye. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found naturally in salmon, tuna and flax seeds.
Blink blink blink
Give your eyes a rest and blink to help your eyes regain some of the moisture they’ve lost.
To learn more about showing your eyes some love, chat with your doctor and visit myeyelove.com.
This article was produced by Thrive Global and sponsored by Shire.
