Dry Eye Treatments
Many people experience dry eye due to age, screens or being in dry or windy environments. Luckily, there are treatments available like Xiidra (Lifitegrast), Xiidra, a prescription eye drop that treats dry eye by reducing inflammation.
Artificial Tears
Artificial tears are eye drops that mimic natural tears. They help keep the eyes moist and can be found in drugstores. There are different types of artificial tears, so if one doesn’t work, you can try another until you find relief. Many people use artificial tears several times a day to keep their eyes comfortable.
Rest Your Eyes
If you spend a lot of time looking at screens, it’s important to rest your eyes. Staring at screens reduces how often you blink, causing your eyes to dry out faster. The 20-20-20 rule can help: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Use a Humidifier
Dry indoor air can make dry eye worse, especially during winter. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help keep your eyes from drying out.
Wear Sunglasses
When outside, sunglasses protect your eyes from wind and sunlight, both of which can dry out your eyes. Wraparound sunglasses are especially good for keeping wind from reaching your eyes.
Adjust Your Diet
Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, walnuts and flaxseeds, can help improve tear quality. Omega-3s reduce inflammation and support eye health, which can help relieve dry eye symptoms.
Medications for Dry Eye
If these simple changes aren’t enough, there are medications available that may help, including Xiidra (Lifitegrast).
Xiidra (Lifitegrast)
Xiidra is an eye drop medication that targets the inflammation in your eyes. It’s often prescribed for people with more severe dry eye symptoms. Unlike artificial tears, Xiidra is not just a moisturizer. It helps reduce inflammation in the eyes, making it easier for them to stay naturally moist.
Most people use Xiidra twice a day, once in each eye. Some people feel a slight stinging when they first use it, but this usually gets better over time. Xiidra may take a few weeks to start working fully, so it’s important to use it as directed by your doctor.
Restasis
Another prescription eye drop for dry eye is Restasis. Like Xiidra, Restasis works by reducing inflammation in the eyes. However, it may take several months before some people feel full relief. Restasis is usually used twice daily, and your doctor can help decide if it’s right for you.
Steroid Eye Drops
Steroid eye drops are sometimes used for short-term relief of dry eye, especially if the eyes are very inflamed. Steroids can be very effective, but they are usually prescribed only for a few weeks at a time to avoid side effects.
Signs of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms can vary, but common signs include:
- Stinging or burning in the eyes.
- Feeling like something is in your eye.
- Blurred vision.
- Eye redness.
- Watery eyes, which is a reaction to dryness.
- Trouble wearing contact lenses.
Getting Rid of Dry Eye
If you have dry eye, making simple changes like using artificial tears, resting your eyes and adjusting your diet can help. For more severe symptoms, medications like Xiidra (Lifitegrast) can provide additional relief by targeting the inflammation that causes dry eye. Always talk to your eye doctor to find the best treatment plan for you. With the right care, you can keep your eyes comfortable and healthy.