Dry eyes is a common condition that affects millions of people each year, but post-menopausal women are especially prone. The symptoms of dry eyes include dryness, redness, inflammation, the feeling of something in the eye, sensitivity to light, and eye discomfort. The condition is caused when the body’s own tears are inadequate lubrication, and the condition can continue over the span of weeks or months. However, there are a number of treatments:

1. Natural tears
A natural option for treating dry eye is one’s own tears. Of course, when suffering dry eye that is a process that is not functioning correctly. It is, however, a process that can be given some assistance. Using one’s own tears to combat dry eye can be helped along by blocking the tear ducts with silicone plugs to help keep the eye naturally lubricated for longer.

2. Warm eye compresses
Clogged meibomian glands can be a possible underlying issue when it comes to dry eyes. If that is the case, warm eye compresses applied to closed eyelids can bring relief. Not only do these help to bring comfort in general, they serve an even more important function for dry eye sufferers. They can physically help by softening the hardened oil that is impeding the glands from functioning properly.

3. Omega-3 supplements
Another treatment for dry eyes are omega-3 supplements, which have risen to popularity for a variety of reasons in recent years. Research suggests that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can have positive effects for dry eyes. There are also other potential benefits of taking these supplements as well; they have been credited as helpful for reduced risk of blood clots, protection from macular degeneration, combating anxiety and depression, and a variety of other things. One especially aspect is that, not only do they offer benefits, these supplements are not known to carry with them any significant negative side effects.

4. Castor oil eye drops
Another way to combat dry eyes are castor oil drops. Their usage helps to decrease tear evaporation. This allows for the eye to retain more of its own natural moisture. The best time to apply these is at bedtime, which allows for them to work overnight. One to three drops should be applied to the eye.

5. Eye massage
Not only is a gentle eye massage soothing, it can help to stimulate the oil glands. The process is simple, too. All that is needed is a gentle soap, closed eyelids, and a few minutes to gently massage the eyelids.

6. Rest
It may seem like a simple thing, but resting one’s eyes can have significant benefit for dry eyes. Overuse of the eyes can mean strain, and that can exacerbate eye dryness. Rest works best if done in conjunction with blinking more frequently.