Dry eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition. Many people are unaware that the quality of their sleep can significantly impact their eye health. If you're tired of waking up with dry, irritated eyes, here are some practical tips to help prevent dry eyes during sleep.
Why Do Dry Eyes Occur During Sleep?
Before looking at the prevention strategies, it is essential to understand why your eyes tend to get dry while you are asleep. When we sleep, our bodies reduce tear production, and if we sleep with our eyes partially open, this can lead to increased evaporation of tears, which can result in discomfort upon waking.
Ensure a Humid Environment
The air in your bedroom can significantly impact your eye health during sleep. Dry, stale air can aggravate dry eye symptoms. A humidifier can add moisture to the air and help keep your eyes from drying out overnight. If it’s windy outside, keeping your windows closed can prevent dry air from entering your space.
Get the Right Amount of Sleep
One of the primary causes of dry eyes during sleep is simply not getting enough sleep. When we sleep, our blink rate decreases significantly, which allows our eyes to dry out more quickly. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to ensure your eyes stay properly lubricated.
Adjust Your Sleep Position
Positioning your head and body during sleep can also impact eye moisture. Sleeping on your side or stomach can cause your eyes to partially close, leading to dryness. Try to sleep on your back instead, allowing your eyes to remain open and exposed to moisture.
Apply Eye Drops Before Bed
Keeping your eyes lubricated with eye drops before bed can help prevent them from drying out overnight. Look for preservative-free eye drops explicitly formulated for use during sleep. Applying them about 30 minutes before bedtime will give them time to take effect.
Consider Specialized Dry Eye Treatments
If you're struggling with chronic or severe dry eyes, we at Orangeville Dry Eye Clinic offer several advanced treatment options that may provide lasting relief. These include Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), Radiofrequency (RF) and LipiFlow™ Treatment. By working closely with our dry eye specialist, you can develop a personalized treatment plan to address the underlying causes of your dry eyes and find the relief you need, even during sleep.
If you're consistently struggling with dry eyes, consider scheduling an evaluation with our trusted dry eye doctors at Orangeville Dry Eye Clinic. We provide personalized advice and treatments to alleviate your symptoms effectively.