The coronavirus disease has ravaged the globe for several years already. Researchers and medical experts are still dealing with its mutations and other characteristics as they grapple to fully understand it and create a resolution that will stem its effects. Furthermore, recent studies show that the pandemic has increased the probability of suffering from dry eyes. While COVID-19 isn’t directly linked to the condition, the habits that people have formed to combat the spread of the pandemic may be a contributory factor.
According to various eyecare experts, dry eyes are a relatively common condition, especially prevalent in people above 50 years old. It is a condition wherein the eyes don’t produce enough tears, or they make poor-quality tears that don’t provide enough comfort for the eye’s surface. Most patients also describe dry eyes as though they feel they have something foreign inside their eyes that they cannot easily remove.
Experts state that dry eyes can be caused by sitting too long in front of a computer, aside from other risk factors such as age, race, and other attributable health conditions. Other symptoms of dry eyes include eye sensitivity, irritation, stringy mucus in or around your eyes, and eye fatigue.
Although experts say that dry eyes can happen more to people who have or have had COVID-19, the link can still be considered flimsy at best. Nonetheless, here are some dry eye management tips from eye care specialists.
Eat more fish
Fish are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that can efficiently relieve symptoms of dry eyes. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce eye inflammation and soreness, allowing you to produce better tears. You can incorporate fish such as salmon, halibut, sardines, and tuna into your diet to increase your fatty acid intake.
Use a properly-fitting face mask
In most places, wearing a face mask is mandatory, so you must wear one that fits perfectly over your nose. An ill-fitting face mask can contribute to dry eyes because the air escaping from the mask leads to your eyes, and it can quickly dry them out and cause irritation and soreness. It may be a simple tip, but it does have a huge effect.
Use a humidifier
If you have a humidifier at home or in the office, don’t be afraid to use it. Adding more moisture to your immediate surrounding will prevent your eyes from drying out quickly. This can lead to a lower incidence of redness and eye fatigue.
Supplement diet with nuts, legumes, eggs, and vegetables
Another way you can protect your eyes is to supplement your daily diet with legumes, nuts, eggs, and vegetables. They are a good source of lutein, vitamins A, C, E, and zinc, which all contribute to better eye health.
Try eye ointments or drops
Doctors also recommend using eye drops or ointments to relieve tiredness and soreness.
Takeaway
The evidence linking COVID-19 and dry eyes is flimsy at best. However, if you’re suffering from dry eyes, you need to effectively manage them to experience relief.
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