Eye discomfort such as irritation, dryness and fatigue is an everyday occurrence for many people. However, you can alleviate discomfort by changing your immediate environment. Many factors can cause Dry Eye Syndrome, from air quality to digital screens.
Learn actionable environmental solutions to protect your vision.
Why Are My Eyes Always Dry?
Dry eye is a medical condition where there isn’t enough lubrication for your eyes. Several environmental factors often cause it. First is air quality. Around 80% of Americans live in densely populated urban areas with little to no access to clean air. Outdoor smog and indoor pollutants, such as those from paint and cleaners, can disrupt the eye’s tear film and cause inflammation.
The second is climate-related. Some people’s eyes are more sensitive in drier conditions that accelerate tear evaporation from the surface of the eye. Another key factor is the proliferation of digital screens. Staring at screens for a long time can cause digital eye strain and dryness. In fact, dry eyes can affect around 50.2 million peoplenationwide. The number grows each year as more and more people become reliant on technology for their daily lives.
5 Sustainable Remedies for Happier, Healthier Eyes
Here are the most effective changes you can make to your immediate environment to alleviate eye discomfort.
1. Curate an Indoor Air Oasis With Houseplants
You can adopt electric air purifiers to create a more comfortable living space. However, a less energy-intensive way to get clean air at home is taking care of plants. Houseplants purify your homes by consuming carbon dioxide and filter out airborne irritants that aggravate the eyes. They also bring the beauty of nature from the outside world into your home.
Some of the most efficient plants for absorbing toxins in the air include the snake plant, spider plant and peace lily. Having just two or three of these plants can significantly improve indoor air quality and reduce eye irritation. These plants are generally low-maintenance, requiring only weekly watering.
2. Shield Your Eyes From the Elements
Indoors, stop using harsh chemical household cleaners. These items produce strong fumes that can worsen air quality and irritate your eyes. Instead, a mixture of part vinegar, part water and baking soda is enough to clean most surfaces.
For outdoor activities, wear sunglasses on sunny, windy or smoggy days. They are protective eyewear that block UV rays and keep wind-blown dust and pollen from entering your eyes.
3. Practice Mindful Hydration, Inside and Out
To prevent dry eyes, make sure to stay hydrated. Your body needs water to support all vital functions, including the production of tears. Dehydration can lower tear production and make the eyes feel dry. Carry a reusable water bottle so you can drink throughout the day.
Additionally, humidify the air in your home. It can typically be dry due to heating and air conditioning. In such situations, use small and energy-efficient humidifiers to add moisture back into the environment. This moisture will help prevent tears from immediately evaporating from your eyes. Run the humidifier at night to give the eyes a moisture-rich environment during sleep.
4. Master the 20-20-20 Rule for Digital Wellness
Try following the 20-20-20 rule, where you look away to somewhere 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Many ophthalmologists recommend this simple activity to significantly alleviate eye strain. It’s especially important for people whose jobs require staring at computer screens for most of the day. The rule provides a break for your eyes from the intense focus required by screens. As a result, your eye muscles can relax and blink, resetting focus with each repetition.
Set a recurring timer on your computer and phone to train this habit. You can look at your window, look at your displayed photographs or simply stare at the wall. It’s also a powerful and meditative way to reclaim life away from the digital world.
Additionally, consciously blink throughout the day. Blinking is the eye’s primary way to produce lubrication and protect the cornea. By doing this consciously, you ensure that your eyes stay moisturized. Do blinking exercises every hour, closing eyes slowly and fully and holding that before opening them again.
5. Optimize Your Workstation and Support System
Proper ergonomic workstations reduce musculoskeletal pain among desk workers. Improperly placed screens can strain the eyes and neck. Make sure your monitor is at arm’s length, with its top edge just below your eye level. Adjust the screen brightness to match the room’s lighting to reduce glare. For long workdays, try artificial tears to supplement your tear film. Tiny changes to your work setup can drastically improve your dry eyes, especially as you spend the majority of your workdays here.
Clearer Vision for You and the Planet
Chronic dry eyes can be alleviated by changing environmental factors. It doesn’t require costly medications or interventions. The most effective ones are the ones you can do consistently to protect your eyes.
Add plants to the room or use a humidifier during sleep to improve air quality. Stop using harsh cleaning chemicals and wear sunglasses when you go outside. During workdays, make sure your workstation is ergonomic. Don’t forget to try the 20-20-20 rule, drink plenty of water and blink frequently for proper eye moisture.
Mia Barnes is a health and lifestyle writer with a passion for sustainable wellness and eco-friendly living. Mia is the Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind magazine with over 5 years of experience in freelance writing.
Image by hartono subagio
