Herbs, Vitamins, and Supplements that Prevent and Treat Dry Eyes
Herbs and foods rich in phytochemicals can be very effective for relieving all symptoms of menopause, including dry eyes. Some herbs may be used to lubricate the tissues of your eyes, relieve redness, and soothe discomfort.
Calendula and eyebright are gentle herbs that may be made into herbal eyewashes or compresses. Herbs used internally to relieve menopausal symptoms include black cohosh, dong qui, chaste berries, soy, and red clover.
Supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation and improve your comfort level. You must take them consistently for several months in order to benefit. Fish, flax, hemp, krill, black current, borage, and evening primrose oils are all excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids as well.
In addition to relieving dry eyes, these oils improve cardiovascular and joint health. They are important supplements for all women who are menopausal or post-menopausal. I recommend that 1000 milligrams of evening primrose oil be taken three times daily for the treatment and prevention of dry eyes.
A good quality multivitamin/multi-mineral formula should be taken. I recommend the use of vitamin/mineral combinations designed for women or eye health. Check to ensure that your supplement provides 25,000 IU of vitamin A. It should also contain lutein, carotenoids, and zeaxanthin, nutrients which support the health of your eyes. Bilberry is beneficial as well, as it enhances eyesight.
Dark red or purple fruits and vegetables contain nutrients essential for healthy eyes. Eat them daily. Blueberries, beets, blackberries, plums, and dark colored grapes are excellent choices.
Yellow and orange vegetables and fruits contain rich stores of vitamins A and C, which are essential for healthy eyes. Carrots, squash, oranges, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin are just a few of the many yellow and orange fruits and vegetables which contain nutrients that are beneficial for healthy eyes.
Topical Remedies for Dry eyes
If your eyes are irritated, place warm moist cloths, tea bags, or slices of cucumber over your closed eyes for several minutes. These remedies provide soothing comfort, and hydration. They give your eyes a chance to rest. The tea bags may be applied warm or cool.
Cucumber slices and tea bags will relieve puffiness around your eyes in addition to relieving discomfort.
Over the counter, homeopathic, herbal, and prescription eye drops are available. Many eye experts recommend the use of eye gels or ointments over regular drops as they may be effective for a longer period of time.
Do not use drops created for allergy sufferers or products that contain medication which eliminates redness. These products can increase dryness. Lubricating products are the best options. Consult with your eye care professional or experiment with different products to see what ones work best for you.
Keep your hands away from your eyes. If applying drops or compresses, wash your hands carefully prior to and after administration of the treatment. If you place medication in your eyes, do not allow the applicator to touch the eye. If it makes contact with your eye, throw the product away so that you will not get an eye infection.
Professional Treatment of Dry Eyes
Several prescription medications are available that relieve dry eyes. Ask the prescriber about possible side effects before you use them.
If the dry eye condition is severe, you may opt for surgery to gain relief.
Keep Your Eyes Healthy
Take breaks and look up frequently when engaged in activities that cause eyestrain. See your eye care professional at least annually.
If you have excessive redness, experience sharp pain, have drainage from your eyes, or visual changes, notify your health care provider. These may be signs of infection or serious eye diseases.
