Drinking plenty of water is essential to keeping every part of your body healthy. Staying hydrated has been found to improve mood, memory, focus and reaction time. It helps with digestion, keeps you energized and aids in weight loss.
Hydration is also essential for maintaining good eye health. Read on to learn why.
Your body relies extensively on water to perform numerous functions effectively, including the maintenance of eye health. Tears keep your eyes moisturized and comfortable. They help ensure clear vision and provide protection from infections. Three layers comprise these tears, an oily layer that prevents evaporation, a watery layer that moisturizes and a mucous layer that spreads tears evenly. Dehydration can disrupt the balance of these layers, leading to discomfort and dry eyes.
Eye discomfort and dryness are common consequences of dehydration. You might experience a burning sensation, itchiness or redness in your eyes if you fail to consume enough water. These are your body’s way of compensating for dryness. Moreover, chronic dehydration can cause more serious problems like dry eye syndrome, a prevalent issue that affects quality of life.
Prolonged use of digital devices can exacerbate the effects of dehydration on your eyes. It’s easy to forget to blink when using a computer, tablet or smartphone, causing tears to evaporate quickly. Dietary choices and certain medications can also influence hydration levels and eye health.
Increasing daily water intake, reducing screen time and using humidifiers to add moisture to the air are excellent ways to keep your eyes hydrated. It also helps to wear protective eyewear outdoors for protection against wind and dust. If you have persistent dry eye symptoms, visit an eye care professional for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment options, such as artificial tears or prescription drops.
If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms or have concerns about your vision, don’t hesitate to contact us at Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic. Let us be your partners in eye health. Call us at (425) 771-8472 (Lynnwood) or (425) 485-0430 (Bothell). You can also complete our online form to schedule an appointment. We assist patients in Both, WA, and the nearby communities.