Managing Dry Mouth to Improve Dry Eye Discomfort
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Dry eye discomfort impacts millions of people. Research suggests it commonly accompanies dry mouth. Luckily, addressing dry mouth can reduce eye irritation. This article shares lifestyle tips to manage dry mouth, limit eye irritants, recognize symptoms and more. Always discuss personalized treatments with your eye doctor or dentist.
Avoid Irritating Eye Makeup
When eyes bother you, skip eye makeup or use gentle mineral makeup. Heavy, oil-based products can migrate into eyes, especially if watering. This risks further irritation.
Limit Digital Eye Strain
Screens stare back unblinking. This visual strain dries eyes out over time, especially if we forget to blink enough. Try the 20-20-20 rule - every 20 minutes, view something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This lets eyes relax. Also use lubricating drops regularly when on screens.
Understand Treatment Options
If dry mouth contributes to your dry eyes, target the root issue. Your dentist can recommend dry mouth remedies based on the cause, like medication changes or mouthwashes. For eye dryness itself, your optometrist may suggest lubricating drops, omega supplements, warm compresses or eyelid scrubs.
Shield Eyes Outdoors
Wind, glaring sun and low humidity outdoors irritate dry eyes. Wrap-around sunglasses protect from all angles. Side shields also help. If very windy or cold, consider ski goggles to shield eyes.
Recognize Dry Mouth Signs
Does your mouth feel sticky on waking? Do you sip water often or have trouble tasting? These suggest dry mouth. Cracked lips, bad breath, gum disease or mouth sores also signal issues. Pay attention to times of day when mouth and eyes feel most bothered.
Managing dry mouth can reduce uncomfortable dry eye symptoms. Avoid eye irritants, limit digital strain and protect eyes outdoors. Recognize common dry mouth and dry eye signs. Most importantly, seek personalized guidance from your healthcare providers on lifestyle changes and treatment options that suit your situation. With their support, you can find relief!
Avoid Irritating Eye Makeup
When eyes bother you, skip eye makeup or use gentle mineral makeup. Heavy, oil-based products can migrate into eyes, especially if watering. This risks further irritation.
Limit Digital Eye Strain
Screens stare back unblinking. This visual strain dries eyes out over time, especially if we forget to blink enough. Try the 20-20-20 rule - every 20 minutes, view something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This lets eyes relax. Also use lubricating drops regularly when on screens.
Understand Treatment Options
If dry mouth contributes to your dry eyes, target the root issue. Your dentist can recommend dry mouth remedies based on the cause, like medication changes or mouthwashes. For eye dryness itself, your optometrist may suggest lubricating drops, omega supplements, warm compresses or eyelid scrubs.
Shield Eyes Outdoors
Wind, glaring sun and low humidity outdoors irritate dry eyes. Wrap-around sunglasses protect from all angles. Side shields also help. If very windy or cold, consider ski goggles to shield eyes.
Recognize Dry Mouth Signs
Does your mouth feel sticky on waking? Do you sip water often or have trouble tasting? These suggest dry mouth. Cracked lips, bad breath, gum disease or mouth sores also signal issues. Pay attention to times of day when mouth and eyes feel most bothered.
Managing dry mouth can reduce uncomfortable dry eye symptoms. Avoid eye irritants, limit digital strain and protect eyes outdoors. Recognize common dry mouth and dry eye signs. Most importantly, seek personalized guidance from your healthcare providers on lifestyle changes and treatment options that suit your situation. With their support, you can find relief!