3 ways to... BEAT DRY, SORE EYES

PREVENT

The combination of hot weather, sunshine and pollen can leave many with sore, dry and irritated eyes, particularly among those working in an air-conditioned office in front of a computer. Staring at a screen reduces the blink rate from eight to two per minute, drying out the eyes. Stop this in its tracks by taking a ‘blink time out’ every 20 minutes to blink slowly ten times.

TREAT

Anti-allergy tablets may help if hay fever is the cause. A range of over-the-counter lubricant treatments, including drops, oils and ointments, are available which will help with dry, sore eyes. Speak to a pharmacist who will be able to advise the best suited to your symptoms. If you spend long hours in a dry environment, for example air-conditioned rooms, a humidifier can help to moisten the air and lessen the impact on gritty eyes. Research has indicated that there is a link between omega-3 fatty acids and improvement of dry eye syndrome. Omega-3 can be found naturally in oily fish, seeds and walnuts, or may be purchased as a supplement in health-food shops.

DON’T BOTHER

While rubbing your eyes does stimulate the tear ducts which kick-starts lubrication, there is a high risk that you transfer germs from your fingers into your eyes, which can worsen your condition or even lead to an infection.