Soothe Your Sore Eyes

By Hannah Wallace

A medley of natural and medical remedies that can help you keep your sight just right

Stinging red eyes, blurred vision, and a sensitivity to light: They all add up to dry eye syndrome (DES), one of the most common reasons Americans go to an ophthalmologist. OTC artificial tears or topical steroids offer relief but don't address the underlying problem: a lack of tears to properly lubricate the eyes. Fortunately, natural treatments and medical procedures can offer long-term help.

Nutritionist

1. Linda Antinoro, RD, senior nutritionist, Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston

Eat more omega-3s "These fatty acids help manage symptoms by reducing inflammation." In one study, women who ate about 2,350 mg of omega-3s per week had a 68% lower occurrence of DES than women who ate less than 500 mg weekly.

Nutritional Rx
Take at least 500 mg daily of both DHA and EPA supplements, or eat up to three 4-ounce servings of fatty fish like salmon or canned light tuna per week (avoid shark--it tends to have high mercury levels).

Sleep Expert

2. Rubin Naiman, PhD, director of sleep programs at Miraval Resort in Tucson

Get some Zzzs "During sleep, complex changes occur in the tear film--a thin layer of mucous, oil, and water that coats the eye, providing moisture and protection. Adequate sleep gives the eyes a break and replenishes the film."

Sleep Rx
Aim to sleep at least 8 hours each night, without air blowing directly on your face from a fan, air conditioner, or heater. If the air is dry, use a humidifier; some people's eyes open slightly while they sleep.

Ophthalmologist

3. Robert Latkany, MD, founder, Dry Eye Clinic at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and Dry Eye Center of New York

Try punctal plugs "These sesame seed-size silicone plugs are inserted into your tear drainage ducts, keeping tears from escaping and retaining moisture. Punctal plugs  have been around for nearly 40 years and studies have shown their efficacy."

Medical Rx
An ophthalmologist inserts the plugs in a simple, 20-second outpatient procedure. They can be implanted temporarily or permanently. To find an eye doctor near you, visit dryeyezone.com.

Originally published on February 1, 2008

More From Prevention:

• Health "Rules" You Should Break
• Top Medical Breakthroughs of 2007
• World's Best Natural Cures
• Shrink Your Belly
• Ultimate Stomach Flattener