Preventing Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye syndrome is a relatively common condition that will affect most people at some point during their lifetime. For some people, the condition may be temporary and can be alleviated with little or no intervention. However, for a large percentage of sufferers, the condition will be chronic, and they may suffer from repeated or ongoing episodes during their lifetime.

Symptoms Of Dry Eye Syndrome

Aside from the most obvious symptom of eyes that feel dry, from which the condition gets its name, other symptoms of dry eye syndrome include the following:

• Eyes that feel itchy and sore
• Gritty feeling in your eyes
• Eyes that look red and swollen
• A feeling like something is lodged in your eyes
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Eyes that are more watery than usual (this may seem unusual, but is actually your body’s natural response to sensing dehydration in the eyes)

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome And Can It Be Prevented?

There are a variety of different factors that can contribute to the development of dry eye syndrome, but fortunately, by making small lifestyle changes, it is possible to minimize the impact the condition has on you.

Reducing screen time

There is no getting away from the fact that we spend longer looking at screens than ever before. However, too much screen time can damage your eyes and one of the conditions that are most commonly associated with excess screen time is dry eye syndrome. This tends to occur because you blink less when you are focusing on something close to your face. By taking regular screen breaks and ensuring you blink plenty, you can decrease dry eye syndrome from occurring.

Making changes to your environment

Not all environments are conducive to healthy eyes. Environments that are windy, cold, dry, dusty, air-conditioned or artificially heated can all dry out your eyes and make them feel sore and stiff. Avoid these environments where you can, turn off the a/c and get plenty of natural air to alleviate your symptoms.

Live a healthy lifestyle

You don’t have to be super healthy all of the time, but studies have shown that people with poor diets and who smoke and consume excessive amounts of alcohol are more likely to suffer from a range of health problems – including dry eye syndrome. Eat plenty of foods that are proven to be good for eye health, such as carrots, citrus fruits, green, leafy vegetables, eggs, and oily fish to help reduce your risk of dry eyes.

Swap your medications if you can

Dry eye syndrome is a common side effect in a number of different medications, including some antidepressants and blood pressure medications. If you are suffering from dry eye syndrome and you currently take medication for your condition, speak to your doctor to see if there is an alternative drug that you can take instead.



Dry eyes can be a nuisance, but you don’t have to live with the effects of this common ocular condition. For more advice on minimizing dry eye syndrome, or if you are already suffering from dry eyes and would like support, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with our experienced team of professionals at Clark EyeCare Center in Wichita Falls, TX who will be delighted to assist you (940) 691-5645.