Dry eyes and Omega 3 fatty acid
There are various treatment options to minimize dry eye symptoms. Omega 3 fatty acid nutritional supplements are one option to try. They may be used with other treatments as part of a program for managing dry eye. Symptoms of eye dryness can include dry sensation, redness, grittiness, pain, burning, watering, blurred vision and inconsistent vision quality. Determining whether these supplements are effective in reducing dry eye symptoms for you requires about a two-month trial, and dosage varies by individual.
Itchy eyes and allergies
Allergies may cause itchy eyes. Many people have seasonal or year-round allergies that can cause eye discomfort, such as grasses or blooming plants, or dust mites in pillows. Sometimes making changes can help, like keeping windows closed at home, washing bedding in hot water and replacing pillows with new hypo-allergenic pillows. The eye doctors at Winona Health can help you determine if your eye symptoms are caused by allergies and can help you manage these symptoms.
OcuSOFT
These OcuSOFT products are anti-bacterial cleaning products designed for use on the eyelids and lashes. They help clean off grit and dried oil and help the oil glands in the eyelids produce the oil that lubricates our eyes. These products can be used as needed up to twice per day, depending upon how “gritty” the lids are. These products are available over the counter at drugstores and pharmacies and come packaged as single use sponges or in a bottle where a small amount can be used on a washcloth.
Directions for use:
- Wash hands
- Open pre-moistened sponge or put small amount of cleanser from bottle onto washcloth
- Close eyes and gently scrub eyelids using side to side strokes for approximately 30 seconds
- Rinse thoroughly with water
For more information:
Eye Care Center
Winona Health, Clinic 3rd Floor
859 Mankato Avenue
Winona, MN 55987
507.474.4760
8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday