Many eye conditions start small with minor symptoms that, if ignored, will progress to a more serious problem that requires a visit to the eye doctor.
Here are three simple treatments for eye health at home that can prevent certain lid infections or ocular symptoms from worsening. For best results we recommend doing these at least twice a day.
Warm Compress
A warm compress can help with several common eye complaints, such as:
- Feeling like you have something in your eye
- Styes and chalazions
- Swollen eyelids or blepharitis
- Eyelid spasms
Place a damp washcloth in the microwave for 12-15 seconds. Hold the warm washcloth against the closed eyelid. (Use caution when placing warm washcloth on eyelids to avoid burns). Repeat this procedure once the washcloth cools off. Warm compress masks are also available over-the-counter for purchase.
Lid Scrubs
A lid scrub is a common home treatment for:
- Feeling like you have something in your eye
- Pink eye
- Itchy eyes
- Excessive tearing
- Styes and chalazions
- Swollen eyelids for blepharitis
Using a damp washcloth, apply a small amount of baby shampoo, and create a slight lather. Close the eye that is to be washed. Work the wash cloth around the eyelid and eyelash area in a side to side motion. Cleaning for 10 seconds per eye should be adequate.
Rinse out the soap from the washcloth, and wipe the soap out of the eye area. Be sure to keep your eyes closed to prevent eye irritation. Over-the-counter pre-moistened lid scrubs are also commercially available.
Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter lubricants can bring your eyes comfort and decrease symptoms of dryness, burning, itchiness, grittiness, excessive tearing and fluctuating vision. They can also help if you’re experiencing red eyes, feeling like something is in your eye, and eyelid spasms.
Start by using artificial tears 4 to 6 times per day. If your eyes are comfortable at this frequency, you can decrease the frequency to see if your eyes stay comfortable. You should experiment until you find the minimum frequency that you need to keep your eyes comfortable.
If you are needing the tears more than 6 times per day, it is recommended to use preservative free tears to reduce the amount of chemicals/preservatives which may irritate the eye.
What If Symptoms Do Not Improve?
Often, the above treatments are the first line of defense before stronger medication is prescribed. However, if your symptoms do not improve after the above treatment options for eye health at home, call Berkeley Eye Center today at 713-526-1600 for an eye exam from the comfort and safety of your own home via telemedicine. This allows you to visit with an ophthalmologist through your smartphone, tablet or other video devices.