From cutting back on screen time to keeping a bottle of eye drops handy, here’s how to relieve dry eye symptoms
As most of us have retired to our homes for the past two years, new research suggests that along with the drastic change in our daily routines came another ailment: dry eyes. From the use of masks to spending more time in air-conditioned indoor climates and an increase in WFH and hybrid work models, as well as online education, the causes of dry eyes have increased in number and frequency, and many are closely related to our day to day. day routines.
Why Do dry eyes happen?
The average adult human blinks 15 to 20 times a minute to keep eyes clean and hydrated, but looking at digital screens can cut that rate by more than half. And with a dramatic rise in WFH, online education, and even gaming, coupled with a greater reliance on our phones, we’re looking at screens more than ever. Over time, the quality and quantity of our tears can deteriorate, resulting in digital eyestrain and dry eyes. Air conditioning can also increase airflow to our eyes, drying them out faster. This can be particularly noticeable for those who wear contact lenses.
How can dry eyes be prevented?
Being aware of your blinking habits, as well as consciously blinking frequently, especially during periods of intense concentration and work, can help mitigate dry eye symptoms. The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests a 20-20-20 rule1– Every 20 minutes, turn your attention away from your screens to look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Reducing the brightness and contrast of screens can also help reduce irritability.
Avoiding open vents can help minimize drying conditions. Improving sleep habits, which have been affected during the pandemic, exacerbated by long stays at home and lack of time outdoors, may also contribute to the relief of dry eyes, according to a 2021 review.two of the risk factors leading to “quarantine dry eye” worldwide. Drinking more water and adjusting your diet can help prevent dry eyes; look for omega-3 fatty acids, which are commonly found in fish.
What if I can’t minimize screen time?
In today’s digital-first era, it’s not always possible to shy away from screens. For many of us, screens make up a significant part of our daily routine, totaling several hours a day.
The simplest solution? Keep a bottle of eye drops at your desk to help keep your eyes hydrated and relieve dry eye symptoms. A preservative-free option means you can apply eye drops as needed to soothe your eyes, including before bed.
no condoms Biotrue eye drops They are available over the counter at your local pharmacy and provide instant natural hydration. Available in unique- Y multidose formats, these eye drops provide instant relief for dry eye symptoms and are suitable for use with contact lenses. The main ingredient, hyaluronic acid, is naturally produced by your body and helps attract and retain moisture while soothing irritation.
Over-the-counter eye drops and artificial tears can help relieve dry eyes, but if symptoms persist, contact your ophthalmologist.
To make sure this product is right for you, always read and follow label directions. For the most up-to-date information on these products, visit www.bausch.ca or call 1-888-459-5000. Code: v2
1 Boyd, K. (2020). Computers, digital devices and eyestrain. American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/computer-usage
2 Naples, PE, Nioi, M. and Fossarello, M. (2021). The “quarantine dry eye”: confinement due to coronavirus disease 2019 and its implications for the health of the ocular surface. Risk management and health policy, 141629–1636. https://doi.org/10.2147/RMHP.S277067