Dry eyes have become a common problem, in which your eyes do not make enough tears or have enough moisture to be healthy and function properly. An appointment for an eye examination should be scheduled when an individual experiences severe symptoms that have never happened before.
Dry eye signs such as discomfort, irritation or vision blur are a common issue due to the longer use of phones and laptops in recent years. While the internet is full of various remedies, content creator Allan Mandell suggests a straightforward solution, which is blinking your eyes for one minute to help relieve dry eye symptoms.
Mandell explains that spending long hours looking at screens or being in dry environments can make us blink less, which causes dry, irritated eyes. He suggests that intentionally practising blinking exercises can help open the meibomian glands, which are tiny oil-producing glands at the top of eyelids and are crucial for keeping the eyes moist. This simple act can spread tears evenly on the surface, preventing dryness and discomfort.
According to Mandell, “Close your eyes gently for a few seconds. Open them up, open them wide. Blink rapidly. Just start blinking, stimulating that tear production to keep your eyes well-lubricated. I hope this helps make it a great day.”
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Let’s Explore How You Can Minimise or Prevent Dry Eye Symptoms:
- Eye Drops –It is one of the most common treatments for dry eyes. Depending on your condition, the eye specialist may recommend a specific type of drop. Not all eye drops are the same and it’s important to use preservative-free drops as they are usually more effective on your eyes.
- Warm Compress – Use a warm eye mask on your closed eyelids in the morning and evening. These masks can be heated in the microwave. Hold it gently on your closed eyelids for a few minutes and later, blink forcefully a few times to spread the moisture.
- Remove Contacts Before Sleeping – Unless your contact lenses are designed for overnight use, always take them out before going to bed. Removing them earlier than usual can provide your eyes enough time to breathe.
- Stay Hydrated – Dehydration is another reason that could lead to dry eyes. Drinking at least a glass of water throughout the day can help keep your eyes moisturised.
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule – Our phone or laptop screens put pressure on our eyes. To prevent dryness, after every 20 minutes of screen time, take a 20-second break and focus your eyes on an object at least 20 feet away to relax your eyes.
