Dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a relatively common condition. It affects at least 5-34% of the population at some time and the chances of developing it increase with age. With more and more people using digital devices and spending a great amount of time working at computers, dry eye syndrome has become much more prevalent.

Apart from consulting a healthcare service provider, there are many lifestyle changes and natural treatments for dry eyes that can alleviate the symptoms and prevent further occurrence.

1. Typical causes of dry eyes

There are several causes for dry eye syndrome, including:

• Age
• Congenital or hereditary factors
• Excessive use of digital devices
• Lifestyle
• Chronic conditions like diabetes
• Decreased tear production
• Poor quality of tears
• Evaporation
• Post-menopausal conditions in women
• Symptoms of underlying diseases like arthritis, glaucoma, and autoimmune diseases
• Side-effects of medications
• Use of contact lenses
• Injury, thermal, or chemical burns
• LASIK or refractive surgery
• Eyelid disorders or deformities
• Vitamin A deficiency
• Lack of adequate hydration
• Malnutrition

It’s important to identify the underlying cause of dry eye syndrome. It helps to target it accurately and ensure relief and prevention.

2. Side-effects of regular medication
Many regular medications that are used for allergies or blood pressure can cause dry eyes. Also at fault are things like painkillers, antihistamines, nasal decongestants, antidepressants, antipsychotic medications. Medicine used to treat Parkinson’s, hormone replacement therapy, contraceptives, acne medicines, and even certain types of eye drops can trigger dry eye. Discuss changing to another form of these drugs with your doctor if you notice symptoms of dry eyes developing.

Certain cosmetics and skincare products may have side-effects, so swap them for milder, fragrance-free products. Waterproof makeup can also cause dry eyes.

3. Lifestyle and natural treatments for dry eyes

• Regular cleansing
  Washing with a soft cloth soaked in warm water, applying a gentle soap or baby shampoo on the eyelids, and cleansing the eye area of accumulated oils and pollutants can give relief.
• Tear duct plugs
  Sterile lacrimal plugs are used to ensure that the eye’s natural tears don’t drain away.
• Diet and nutrition
  It is important to eat more omega-3 rich foods like oily fish, walnuts, and seeds. Include vitamins A and D and mineral-rich foods like fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, drink plenty of water and stay hydrated to avoid dry eye syndrome.
• Lifestyle changes
  Quit smoking and the intake of excessive alcohol and if you’re working in windy, smoky, or polluted conditions, wear a mask and protective eyewear. Working for long hours at the computer or staring at the phone or TV screen excessively is a direct cause of dry eye.
• Natural treatments for dry eyes in these situations is to use the 20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look away and blink 20 times. Limit screen time for children and ensure both you and they get plenty of outdoor exercises. Ensure proper lighting for reading and fine tasks. If you work or live in an air-conditioned environment, use a humidifier and an air-cleaner filter.
• Alternative medicine
  Homeopathic tear stimulation eye drops, home-heated eye massage to unblock tear-glands, and some traditional medicine systems, may prove beneficial for the syndrome. Consult your doctor before you try these natural treatments for dry eyes.