What comes to mind when you think about eye health? Most people talk about vision and corrective lenses, such as glasses and contact lenses. While these things are important, there are other aspects of your eye health that should also be considered.
One thing that isn’t discussed enough is the way that hydration plays an important role in ensuring that your eyes feel good and are functioning well. If you feel like your eyes are dry, tired, and itchy, then it could be related to hydration.
If you are dehydrated, then you could be experiencing side effects in your eyes. Not only are tears produced in your eyes when you are crying, but tear production is also important for maintaining the right moisture balance on the surface of your eyes. Each time you blink, these tears are spread around your eyes to keep them feeling comfortable and hydrated.
But, if your eyes are dehydrated, then you will likely feel discomfort throughout the day. You might notice that your eyes are dry, burning, or itching. Living with chronic dehydration can take a toll on your eyes over time, causing fatigue, eye strain, and even blurry vision. If your eyes are dehydrated, then it can worsen existing eye conditions and even impact the health of your cornea.
Here are a few signs that your eyes might be dry or dehydrated:
There are several things that can be done to help you feel more comfortable if your eyes are dry. One option is to use saline drops for temporary relief (also known as artificial tears). But we also recommend lifestyle habits that help to improve your hydration levels overall.
For example, you should be drinking 6 – 8 glasses of water daily. If you are active or you drink a lot of caffeine, then you might need to drink even more water. Be careful to limit alcohol consumption. Drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of dehydration.
Consider using a humidifier at home, especially during the drier months of the year.
For more information about the best ways to protect your eyes and vision, talk to our experienced team. We offer personalized treatment plans and full-service solutions to help you maintain the best eye health possible. Contact our team at Temecula Creek Optometry for a consultation: (951) 302 -1331.