Dry Eye Headache: What Springfield Seniors Should Know

Almost 16 million people in the United States suffer from dry eye disease, according to Johnson and Johnson. The severity of the condition can range from aggravating to downright unbearable.

Are you a senior in Springfield, MO, who thinks you may have dry eye? In this article, we will dive into the causes of dry eye headache, how you can relieve symptoms, and other Springfield health tips for aging wellness.

Read on to learn all about how senior eye care can combat vision discomfort and provide dry eye relief.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or adequate lubrication. It can cause symptoms such as:

• Burning sensation
• Gritty feeling
• Eye fatigue
• Light sensitivity
• Feeling like there are foreign bodies in the eyes

Although dry eye presents with similar symptoms, there are three types of dry eye disease:

1. Evaporative Dry Eye (EDE): Occurs when your tears evaporate too quickly because the tear film does not have a sufficient oily layer.
2. Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye (ADDE): Occurs when your lacrimal glands do not produce enough tears to keep the eye healthy and lubricated.
3. Mixed Dry Eye: A combination of the two main subtypes of dry eye specified above.

Causes of Dry Eye Headache

While there is no definite connection between headaches and dry eye, they are related. Dry eye headache occurs when the dryness in your eyes is so severe that it causes other problems and symptoms.

Here are some of the main causes attributed to dry eye headache:

Contact Lenses

Although contact lenses are an excellent alternative to traditional glasses, they can still present problems of their own. Dry eye is a common symptom associated with contact lens use, especially if you are a beginner.

Irritation from contact lenses, causing dry eye, may lead to headaches. Dry eye can sometimes be attributed to debris buildup in the eye as well.

For seniors with dry eye headaches from contact lenses, disposable lenses may be a better option. These types of lenses often have softer material and additional lubrication to combat dry eye.

Eye Strain

Focusing on something for too long can lead to eye strain and exacerbate dry eye. This is especially prevalent for tasks that involve staring at a screen, such as a computer, for several hours a day.

Eye strain from dry eye can exacerbate symptoms and cause headaches. The best solution for this problem is to step away from the screen, if possible, or find another method to relieve eye strain.

Allergies

Allergies can cause both irritation and inflammation in the eyes, which are associated with dry eye. Excessive eye watering from allergies can contribute to dry eye.

Rubbing your eyes constantly due to allergy symptoms and attempting to focus can cause headaches as well.

How to Get Dry Eye Relief

Even though dry eye is an irritating condition, there are many remedies available. Here are some of the ways that you can treat your dry eye and help get relief from headache symptoms:

Eyedrops

Eyedrops are by far the quickest and easiest way to relieve dry eye symptoms. They serve as artificial lubricants to give moisture to the eye and prevent further symptoms from developing.

The most common type of eyedrops is known as artificial tears. These eyedrops can be used as needed throughout the day for continuous hydration in the eyes.

If you use eyedrops several times a day, you should opt for a preservative-free eyedrop formula, as preservatives in larger amounts can be unhealthy for the eyes.

Moisturizing Eye Ointment

Eye drops alone may sometimes be insufficient for relieving dry eye and headache symptoms. Using a moisturizing eye ointment may lock in hydration.

Eye ointments worn overnight contain ingredients that can provide longer-term relief for dry eyes. Rather than waking up with dry, itchy eyes, you will start the day feeling refreshed and irritation-free.

Typically, you only need a small amount of eye ointment to achieve the desired results. For seniors in assisted living, it may be beneficial to receive assistance with this task.

Limited Screen Time

According to Reid Health, adults should get an average of two hours of screen time per day. If you often spend much more than two hours on your devices, it's wise to cut back.

Set timers on apps on your devices to keep track of use. For instance, you can set a limit for a group of apps of two hours, so once those two hours are up, you will no longer be able to access them.

In addition, try switching to analog entertainment methods, such as books and magazines. These options are particularly helpful before bed, as blue light from screens can disrupt your circadian rhythm and prevent good sleep hygiene.

Eat More Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Did you know your diet can actually affect your eye health? Prioritizing healthy, nutritious foods may help combat symptoms of dry eye headaches.

Specifically, Omega-3 fatty acids can foster better eye health and help with conditions such as dry eye and glaucoma.

Some of the best foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids include:

• Seafood: Tuna, herring, salmon, mackerel, and sardines
• Nuts and seeds: Chia seeds, walnuts, and flaxseeds
• Fortified foods: Juice, eggs, milk, and yogurt
• Plant oils: Canola oil, flaxseed oil, and soybean oil

Prioritize Senior Eye Care at Springhouse Village

Dry eye can be difficult to navigate, but it does not have to be. With this guide, you can find a solution for your dry eye headache, so you can feel comfortable and content.

At Springhouse Village, you will be able to prioritize all aspects of your health, including your eyes. With chef-prepared meals to ensure adequate nutrition and plenty of assistive services available, you can get the help you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Ready to see it for yourself? Reach out to us today to learn more about all of the exclusive programs and amenities we have to offer at our location in Springfield, MO. We can't wait to hear from you!