Mar 10 2008
Solutions for Dry Eyes
One of the problems that can accompany growing older is the problem of dry eyes. For women, this is related to declining or fluctuating estrogen levels. One of the solutions available to you is to supplement lowering estrogen with bioidentical hormones. In this article, we will discuss other solutions besides bioidentical hormone supplementation.
Natural supplements which can assist with dry eye syndrome are Primrose oil, Vitamin A, Omega-3 (fish oils such as salmon), Omega-6 fatty acids and Hyaluronic Acid (nature’s moisturizer). The Omega-3 and 6 can be taken as a supplement or ingested by including fish and nuts in your diet. Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan, found naturally in all the tissues in the human body. It is found in the extra cellular matrix of the skin and in the synovial fluid that moisturizes the cartilage, eyes and joints. Hyaluronic acid is included in many of the lubricating eye drops medications on the market. Taking Vitamin C in higher doses depending on your age – and drinking plenty of water help improve the layer of tear film in your eyes. These supplements can be bought at your local health food store or pharmacy.
In addition, you can use the best lubricating eye drops. GenTeal eye drops and eye lubrication made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals are excellent products which can also be used with contact lenses. GenTeal eye lubrication in the tube should be used at night because it is a little “gooey” which allows it to sit longer in the eye than the drops.
When you blink your eyes, ensure that you blink often, fully closing the eye lid each time which helps distribute tear film across the entire eye. Blinking distributes the tears which bathe the eye, keep eyes moist, and clean out debris and dust. Tears, very important to the health of your eyes, neutralize microorganisms that can grow in the eye causing eye infections.
Also, beware of many medications which may increase the dryness of your eyes, including anti-depressants, antihistamines, certain blood pressure medicines, Parkinson’s medications, and birth control pills. Check with your doctor about discontinuing any of these medications vs. the problem of dry eyes.
