The widespread disease known as “dry eyes,” or “dry eye syndrome,” is characterized by insufficient tear production or excessive evaporation of tears. This causes the surface of the eye to become too dry and lubricated. There are various causes of dry eyes in youngsters. There are certain environmental factors that can lessen the formation of tears, like wind, smoke, or dry air. Extended periods of time spent using screens on phones, tablets, or PCs can also cause decreased blinking, which can result in dry eyes.
These are eight all-natural methods to aid kids with dry eyes
1. Ascertain proper hydration:
Urge your child to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking lots of water. Drinking enough water keeps the body’s moisture balance—including that of the eyes—unaltered.
2. A diet that is balanced:
Include in your child’s diet foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. Nuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and salmon are among the foods that can help increase ocular moisture. Make sure their diet includes plenty of zinc and other minerals, as well as vitamins A, C, and E, all of which are critical for eye health. Nuts, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and carrots are all healthy choices.
3. Increase the humidity in the space:
If you live in a dry region or during dry seasons, consider installing a humidifier in your child’s bedroom. By adding moisture to the air, this can lessen the chance of eye dryness.
4. Promote blinking:
Instruct your youngster about the significance of blinking frequently, particularly during prolonged periods of screen time (TV, PCs, tablets) or reading. Tears are dispersed more equally throughout the eyes during blinking.
5. Warm compresses:
For a few minutes, cover your child’s closed eyelids with a warm, moist washcloth. This may reduce dryness and encourage the production of tears.
6. Limit the amount of time spent on screens:
Keep an eye on and restrict your child’s screen time. To avoid eye strain and dryness, encourage pauses when using screens for extended periods of time. The 20-20-20 rule, which suggests taking a 20-second break and looking at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes, can be useful.
7. Defend against dust and wind:
When your child is outside in windy or dusty weather, make sure they have on protective eyewear or sunglasses. This lessens the chance of eye discomfort and dryness.
8. Promote regular pauses for the eyes:
Urge your kids to take regular pauses from activities that require their eyes, like reading or painting. You can lessen dry eyes and eye strain by averting your gaze and concentrating on far-off items.
Additional tips
Proper hygiene:
Instruct your youngster not to rub their eyes as this might aggravate dryness and create irritation.
Steer clear of smoke and pollution:
Restrict your child’s exposure to smoke and other irritants as they can cause dry eyes and irritation.
See a pediatrician or other eye care specialist if your child’s dry eyes don’t go away after trying these home cures. If necessary, they can propose appropriate therapies and rule out any underlying diseases.