# What is Good for Dry Eye?

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/blog/eye-diseases/what-is-good-for-dry-eye

**Author:** Kudret Eye İstanbul | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Özdil | **Date:** 2026-09-09

> **Summary:** Dry eye occurs when there are not enough tears to lubricate and nourish the eye, or tears evaporate too fast, causing burning, redness, itching and blurred vision. It is often a long-term condition, but its complaints can usually be kept under control with treatment and simple home measures such as warm compresses, artificial tears, resting the eyes and good sleep, all in consultation with a doctor.

## Quick Facts
- **Cause:** Reduced tear production and increased tear evaporation
- **Home measure:** Warm, clean cloth over the closed eyes for 5 to 10 minutes
- **Sleep:** 8 hours a day with a regular pattern
- **Diagnosis:** Medical history, eye tests and, if needed, antibody tests

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## What is Dry Eye?
A discomfort seen in many age groups, caused by the absence of tears to lubricate and nourish the eye. It causes burning, pain, discomfort and visual disturbances that affect daily life, and leads to many problems if left untreated.

## Causes of Dry Eye
The basic reasons are reduced tear production and a higher rate of tear evaporation; contact lens use, dry air, lupus and dusty environments also contribute.
- Increased evaporation of tears
- Hormonal changes
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammation of the eyelid glands
- Allergic eye diseases
- Use of contact lenses
- Old age
- Vitamin A deficiency
- Some medications used for other diseases

## Symptoms of Dry Eye
Mild at first; without treatment they progress to redness, itching, burning and blurred vision. Other symptoms: narrowing of vision while driving at night, a mucus layer forming in the eyes, sensitivity to light, eye fatigue and related headaches.

## What is Good for Dry Eye?
Dry eye is often long-term, but complaints can usually be controlled with treatment. Resting the eyes, keeping them clean and avoiding tiring activities help prevent recurrence. Every method should be applied in consultation with the doctor.
- **Cleaning and moisturising the eyelids:** blocked oil (meibomian) glands along the lid edges are a common cause; hold a clean cloth soaked in warm water over the closed eyes for 5 to 10 minutes to soften the oils and clear blockages, under a doctor's supervision.
- **Using drops:** doctors recommend artificial tear drops, but they are a temporary measure; the exact cause of the dryness must be found and treated.
- **Wearing glasses instead of contact lenses:** lenses are a main cause; lenses made specially for dry eyes are suitable, but removing lenses and wearing glasses rests the eyes.
- **Drinking water:** enough water does not cure dry eye on its own but supports treatment.
- **Keeping eyelashes clean:** clean the lashes at the end of the day, especially after make-up, using products that do not irritate the eyes.
- **Resting the eyes during the day:** do not stay fixed on one point (computer, television) for long; look around so the eye rests.
- **Wearing sunglasses:** dry eye is common in summer because the heat of the sun dries the eyes.
- **Sleep pattern:** people without a regular sleep pattern are more likely to develop dry eyes; sleep 8 hours a day at set hours.
- **Keeping the house moist:** ventilate regularly in summer and place water on the radiators in winter.

## Diagnosis of Dry Eye
Diagnosis starts with the medical history, followed by eye tests; the doctor may also request antibody tests to check for another underlying cause.