How to Treat Dry Eyes with Ayurveda

Dry Eyes is one of the most common concerns experienced by a large group of the population worldwide. It is often been ignored as a minor problem but can have severe results if left ignored. So what actually is the dry eye problem.

Individuals who have dry eye problems often experience eye redness, blurry vision, heavy eyes, and redness. I have met a couple of individuals who experience this problem and enquired about their lifestyle to exactly understand if I can identify the root cause behind the problem.

Most of these individuals were IT professionals who had more than 10+ hours of screentime. .While other individuals were those who wore contact lenses for most of their working period.  Remaining folks were those who worked in an open environment. 

Based on my research and study, below are some findings.

• Screentime - It is the amount of time spent in front of the screen directly. This may be using laptops, cell-phones or even watching TV. Radiation from this screen causes strain on the eyes which results in the reduction of watery insulation. Screentime is observed the most among teenagers and working individuals. To protect your eyes from harmful radiation and dry eye syndrome one must wear blue light blocking glasses.
                 
  
  
  
•  Working Environment - Working Environment conditions also play a key role. Air quality and the level of pollutants greatly affects your eye condition.  If you have airconditioning in your workspace and you sit for long hours it creates a dry environment around you. In this scenario, it is very important that you stay well hydrated. Sip water in regular intervals and wash your eyes every 2 hours so you keep them well hydrated.
  
  In another scenario, if your job demands traveling outdoors, you must wear sunglasses or fully covered industrial glasses all the time. This will protect your eyes from pollution, heat and other particulates which otherwise would have deposited on the outer surface of your eye draining away the moisture.
   
                      
  
• Surgery - If you have undergone eye surgery like LASIK or the cataract, chances are you may experience dry eye conditions. This is because the surgeon cuts some tissues of the cornea for reshaping. In this wear and tear, nerves of your cornea and tear glands are cut off. This causes less tear production, resulting in dryness. This situation is experienced for the next 6-12 months. Doctors usually recommend regular eye drops which reduce the situation to some extend.
  
                                      
  
• Contact Lens. The contact lens has been one of the major reasons for dry eyes. Individuals wearing lenses for more than 10+ hours face this issue the most. The contact lens of multiple brands has different moisture retention capacities. Contact lens results in protein deposit over the eye which increases the severeness of the issue. One must put on a daily disposable lens rather than monthly ones. Also, one should try and wear lenses for a shorter time duration.
  
  What is an ayurvedic solution to cure Dry eyes?
• Coconut Oil - This oil is a miracle in ayurvedic studies. Use an eyedropper and add a single drop of oil in both eyes. This should be done twice once in the morning and evening. Coconut oil provides good lubrication to the outer corner of your eye. Fatty acids in the oil calm down your nerves and restore the tear production of your eyes.
• Olive Oil - You can repeat the same process just like coconut oil. Besides adding drops of olive oil you can massage your eyelids with this oil before sleeping. This will ensure your eye surface remains moisturized.
  
•  Essential Nutrients - These nutrients are Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc and Omega3. Increase your intake of carrots, beetroot and fish oil capsules. This not only makes your vision stronger and sharper but also restores any undue damage.
        
  
  • Eye Drops - Do NOT use over the counter eye drops for a very long time. Prolonged use of artificial eye drops can cause addiction and other side effects to your eyes. These drops contain a chemical base that is not beneficial in the long run.
    
    I hope you have educated yourself on how to treat dry eyes.
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