Dry eyes, or dry eye syndrome, is a common condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to inadequate lubrication and moisture on the eye’s surface. Dry eyes in children can be caused by several factors. Environmental conditions, such as exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air, can reduce tear production. Prolonged screen time on computers, tablets, or phones can also lead to reduced blinking, causing eye dryness.
Here are eight natural ways to help alleviate dry eyes in children according to paediatric surgeon Rashmi Malhotra.
Ensure adequate hydration: Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration helps maintain the moisture balance in the body, including the eyes.
Balanced diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids in your child's diet. Foods like salmon, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts can help improve eye moisture. Also, ensure they consume a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc, which are important for eye health. Carrots, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and nuts are good options.
Humidify the environment: Use a humidifier in your child's bedroom, especially during dry seasons or if you live in a dry climate. This adds moisture to the air and can help prevent the eyes from drying out.
Encourage blinking: Teach your child the importance of blinking regularly, especially when they are using screens (TV, computers, tablets) or reading for extended periods. Blinking helps to spread tears evenly across the eyes.
Warm compresses: Apply a warm, damp washcloth to your child’s closed eyes for a few minutes. This can help stimulate tear production and relieve dryness.
Limit screen time: Monitor and limit your child’s screen time. Encourage breaks during prolonged screen use to prevent eye strain and dryness. The 20-20-20 rule can be helpful, every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
Protect from wind and dust: Ensure your child wears sunglasses or protective eyewear when outside in windy or dusty conditions. This helps prevent irritation and drying of the eyes.
Encourage frequent eye breaks: Encourage your child to take regular breaks from visually demanding tasks, such as reading or drawing. Looking away and focusing on distant objects can help reduce eye strain and dryness.
Additional tips
Proper hygiene: Teach your child to avoid rubbing their eyes, as this can cause irritation and worsen dryness.
Avoid smoke and pollutants: Keep your child away from smoke and other pollutants, which can irritate the eyes and contribute to dryness.
If your child’s dry eyes persist despite these natural remedies, it’s important to consult a pediatrician or an eye care professional. They can rule out any underlying conditions and recommend appropriate treatments if necessary.
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