How Can I Soothe Sore Eyes?

Simple remedies to relieve dry, irritated eyes

Dry eyes are a common issue for many people but there are ways to soothe sore, irritated eyes. With some simple eye care measures, the discomfort caused by dryness can be avoided.

The first thing to do is limit screen time, or at least give your eyes regular breaks from the screen – this is especially important for those whose jobs require them to spend long hours looking at a computer.

If your eyes remain dry and sore, try washing your eyelids and lashes with warm water, which should get rid of any environmental particles that may have entered.

Warm compresses are also a common approach to soothe dry eyes. Simply run warm water over clean cottonwool balls or pads, close your eyes and lightly press along your eyelash line for one minute. The heat from the compresses should help the glands that produce tears to work better and relieve your eyes.

Eye drops are a convenient way to alleviate discomfort and keep eyes moist and healthy, whether at home, work or out and about. Opt for eye drops that protect from moisture loss and keep the area lubricated for longer periods of time. You’ll find several options available at your pharmacy.

Having dry eyes can cause people to want to rub the itchy area, however this should be avoided at all costs as rubbing can cause long-term damage to your retina.

If your eyes are still sore after trying these remedies, book an appointment with your GP or optometrist.