Dry eyes

Do you feel unpleasantness in the eyes or the presence of foreign objects, particularly a feeling of sand particles being lodged in your eyes? Do you experience discomfort even after a brief exposure to cold winds, air conditioners or after reading books even for a short period?Does your vision blur after prolonged use of computers, tasks like sewing and embroidery or with a few hours of television viewing? Does this discomfort and eye-strain tend to worsen at the end of the day?If you are experiencing these and various such analogous symptoms, you could be suffering from a condition called dry eyes.

As we all know, our eyes are constantly lubricated by the tears from tear glands to keep them moist and hydrated. This helps to protect the eyes by washing away the dust particles, provides oxygen and nutrition to the cornea and prevents infections. When tears produced by the eyes are insufficient then you could end up with dry eyes.

• Age: As we get older, the tear production diminishes, leaving the eye too dry.
• Diseases including diabetes, Sjogren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis or Parkinson's.
• Hormonal changes, especially after menopause
• As a side-effect of certain prescription medications.
• Hot, dry or windy conditions: High altitude, air-conditioning, cold weather, and smoke can also cause dry eyes.
• Frequent usage of computers and hours of television watching or too much reading.
• Some contact lenses users can experience dry eyes when their contacts seem to work against moisturization.
• An eye injury or other problems with your eyes or eyelids
• Vitamin A deficiency or insomnia can also lead to dry eyes.
• Eye surgeries for vision correction like LASIK also can aggravate dry eye.

• Drink plenty of water.
• Protect the eyes from harsh weather conditions like wind and dust.
• Avoid smoking and second hand smoke.
• Use a humidifier, especially in the winter.
• Make sure the medications that you are taking are not causing dry eyes.
• Eat healthy food with nutrients like vitamin A, C and E and those containing omega-3 fatty acids.

Keep taking a break and blinking often when your are watching TV, using computers or when you are indulging in eye-straining activities.

• Do not wear contact lenses for prolonged periods if that is the cause of your dry eyes.
• Get plenty of sleep.