Have you ever felt like your eyes are turning into a desert? You are not alone. Dry eyes are more common than you think, and they are not just an inconvenience—they can make reading, working, and even staring lovingly at your pet a struggle. Are you now curious to know why they happen, and what you can do to keep those peepers properly hydrated? Wrell, read on to find out why your eyes could be acting like a dried-up riverbed.
Your tears are a carefully balanced mix of water, oils, and mucus that keep your eyes lubricated and comfortable. When this balance is disrupted, dryness sets in, and suddenly, blinking feels like sandpaper rubbing against your eyeballs.
So, what could be the possible reasons causing this moisture loss?
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Screen Time Overload – Staring at your phone, laptop, or TV? Your blink rate drops, meaning fewer tears are spread across your eyes.
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Air Conditioning & Heating – Whether it’s the summer breeze of an AC or the toasty blast of central heating, both can suck the moisture right out of your eyes.
- Age & Hormones – Tear production naturally decreases as you get older, and hormonal changes (especially in women) can make things even drier.
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Contact Lenses – They’re convenient, but they can also absorb your tears and leave your eyes parched.
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Medications – Some common drugs, like antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
Coming to what matters the most, here are ways you can hydrate your eyes:
1. Blink More – Sounds simple, but consciously blinking while working on screens can help spread tears evenly.
2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule – Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break.
3. Hydrate Like a Pro – Your body needs water to produce tears, so drink plenty throughout the day.
4. Use a Humidifier – Adding moisture to the air can prevent your eyes from drying out, especially in winter.
5. Invest in Artificial Tears – Lubricating eye drops can be a lifesaver. Just make sure to choose preservative-free options for regular use.
6. Eat for Eye Health – Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) can boost tear production.
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