To combat dry eye, which is when the eyes turn red and burning, it is recommended to use moisturizing drops or artificial tears 3 to 4 times a day to keep the eye moist and reduce the symptoms.
In addition, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist to identify the cause of dry eye and initiate appropriate treatment if necessary.
However, some ways to combat dry eye, while waiting for the doctor's appointment, include:
- Blink more often during the day or whenever you remember;
- Avoid being exposed to wind, air conditioning or fans wherever possible;
- Wear sunglasses when out in the sun, to protect the eyes from the sun's rays;
- Eat foods rich in omega 3, such as salmon, tuna or sardines;
- Drink 2 liters of water or tea per day to maintain hydration;
- Take a break every 40 minutes when using your computer or watching TV;
- Put a compress of warm water on the closed eye;
- Use a humidifier indoors, especially in the winter.
Computer user syndrome can also be known as dry eye syndrome because it causes symptoms like puffy, red eyes, with burning and discomfort.
This care can be done even by those who wear glasses or contact lenses and help prevent dry eyes, as well as dehydration of the body, reducing the risk of dry eye.
When to go to the doctor
It is important to go to the ophthalmologist immediately or to the emergency room when symptoms take longer than 24 hours to disappear, difficulty seeing or severe eye pain or swelling.
Learn more about this problem in: Dry eye syndrome.
Dry eye syndrome is cured through the use of steroid eye drops and surgery, especially in milder cases in which the symptoms only arise with the use of the computer.
Thus, depending on the case, it is common for the ophthalmologist to begin by recommending the use of anti-inflammatory steroid eye drops, such as Dexamethasone, 3 to 4 times a day, and if symptoms do not subside, may advise surgery to improve natural eye.
