A person with dry eyes often feels a burning and gritty sensation in that region. This may occur if the glands located in and around the eyelids don’t secrete adequate tears to keep the eyes moist. Dry eyes can be treated with special medicines, but there are alternative treatments that are natural too. These five treatments for dry eyes that one can try at home.

Warm Compresses
They can reduce inflammation of the eyes and also restore its natural moisture. This home treatment requires one to soak a clean cloth in warm water, then squeeze the cloth and place it over the closed affected eye. One must lightly tap the edge of the eyelids to squeeze the oil-making glands. This may open them up and restore their function. Do this regularly to ease irritation and moisten the eyes, even after you notice that the condition has improved.

Create a Healthy Environment
Certain irritants in the environment may worsen one’s condition of dry eyes. It may lead to reddening of the eyes and can be highly irritable. Creating a suitable environment is one of the best alternative treatments for dry eyes. Stay away from cigarette smoke and extremely windy areas as these may affect the eyes. Also, by the term environment, we not only mean the space around you but what’s around your eyes. This includes wearing appropriate eyewear to reduce eye strain.

Drink Water
Lack of water in the body may cause the glands in the eyes to produce less moisture. So, you must always drink enough water. Having at least 8-10 glasses a day is a great habit. Don’t just drink when you’re thirsty as depriving the body of water for a long time may lead to slight dehydration. This may worsen the condition of dry eyes. Drinking water is a natural alternative treatment to medications and may improve symptoms of dry eyes.

Consume Fatty Acids
Eating foods that have omega-3 fatty acids may help relieve symptoms of dry eyes. This may reduce eye inflammation and boost tear production. Foods like flaxseed, palm oil, chia seeds, and walnuts have a high amount of these fatty acids. Also, you can include fatty fish like sardine, tuna, and salmon in your diet. Eating these foods is a great alternative treatment for dry eyes.

Eating Water-rich Foods
Few fruits like cucumber, tomatoes, and watermelon can keep the body hydrated. They have a high amount of water and may help the glands in the eyes to secrete tears and treat dry eyes. So, you must incorporate such fruits and vegetables into your diet. Spinach, broccoli, oranges, and strawberries, berries have high water content too. Eating these to stay hydrated can go a long way in not only treating dry eyes but also improving one’s overall health.