{"id":29798,"date":"2025-03-03T11:48:38","date_gmt":"2025-03-03T10:48:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/home-remedies-for-dry-eyes-relieve-symptoms-such-as-itchy-and-irritated-eyes\/"},"modified":"2025-03-07T12:18:39","modified_gmt":"2025-03-07T11:18:39","slug":"home-remedies-for-dry-eyes-relieve-symptoms-such-as-itchy-and-irritated-eyes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/home-remedies-for-dry-eyes-relieve-symptoms-such-as-itchy-and-irritated-eyes\/","title":{"rendered":"Home remedies for dry eyes: relieve symptoms such as itchy and irritated eyes"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When your eyes burn, itch and feel like sandpaper<\/strong>, it’s not just unpleasant – it can ruin your whole day. But before you reach for the eye drop flat rate<\/strong>, it’s worth taking a look into your home remedy bag of tricks<\/strong>. From black tea to cucumber slices<\/strong>, there are simple and natural ways to soothe your eyes and stimulate tear production<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

In this article, you will find out which home remedies really help, when it’s time to see an ophthalmologist – and the best way to avoid dry eyes<\/strong>. So: put on your reading glasses and off you go!<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n

Why do dry eyes occur? <\/h2>\n\n

Dry eyes<\/strong> occur when the tear film<\/strong> becomes unstable<\/strong> or tear production is insufficient<\/strong>. The tear fluid<\/strong> normally ensures that the surface of the eye<\/strong> remains moisturized<\/strong>, protects against irritation<\/strong> and flushes out foreign bodies<\/strong>. If this protection is impaired, symptoms such as itching, redness and a foreign body sensation<\/strong>can occur<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

Typical causes are dry heating air, prolonged screen time, draughts or hormonal changes<\/strong>, e.g. during the menopause<\/strong>. Allergies, diabetes mellitus or inflammation of the eyelid margins<\/strong> can also play a role. <\/p>\n\n

The good news is that many home remedies for dry eyes<\/strong> can stabilize<\/strong> the tear film, soothe the eyes and provide natural moisturization<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n

Home remedies for dry eyes: what really helps <\/h2>\n\n

Dry and chronic dry eyes occur time and again in everyday life. In many cases, home remedies can provide relief: <\/p>\n\n

Warm compresses for relief <\/h3>\n\n

Warm compresses<\/strong> are a tried and tested home remedy for dry eyes<\/strong>, as they promote blood circulation in the eyelids<\/strong> and stimulate the Meibomian glands<\/strong>. These glands produce lipids<\/strong> that ensure a stable tear film<\/strong> and prevent the tear fluid from evaporating too quickly<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

This is how the application works:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
    \n
  1. Soak a clean washcloth or cotton pad<\/strong> in warm (not hot) water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Squeeze gently<\/strong> and place on closed eyes for 5-10 minutes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Gently massage<\/strong> over the eyelids<\/strong> to clear the openings of the meibomian glands<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Repeat<\/strong> application once or twice a day<\/strong> to achieve noticeable relief<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n

    Warm compresses are particularly helpful for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

      \n
    • Dry and irritated eyes<\/strong> that feel strained or tired.<\/strong> <\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Inflammation of the eyelid margins (blepharitis)<\/strong>, which impairs tear production<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Prolonged screen time<\/strong> when the tear film<\/strong> becomes unstable<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

      Black tea as an effective home remedy <\/h3>\n\n

      Black tea<\/strong> is not only a drink to enjoy, but also a natural remedy for soothing dry eyes<\/strong>. Its anti-inflammatory tannins<\/strong> help to soothe irritated and reddened eyes<\/strong>. In addition, the moisture in the tea bags<\/strong> moisturizes the eyelids<\/strong> for a short time, which can relieve<\/strong> the dry, itchy feeling<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

      This is how the application works:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
        \n
      1. Brew two tea bags of black tea<\/strong> in hot water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      2. Leave<\/strong> the tea bags to cool for 5-10 minutes<\/strong> until they are pleasantly warm or cool.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      3. Place one sachet on each closed eye for 10-15 minutes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      4. Then rinse<\/strong> the eyes with clear water<\/strong> to remove any residue.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n

        Why is black tea effective?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
          \n
        • Tanning agents have a soothing effect<\/strong> on the irritated eye surface<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Mild moisture<\/strong> helps to stabilize<\/strong> the tear film<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Cool tea bags<\/strong> can also help against swelling and redness<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

          Sliced cucumber – moisture for tired eyes<\/h3>\n\n

          Cucumber<\/strong> is one of the best-known home remedies for dry eyes<\/strong> – and for good reason! The high moisture<\/strong> content of cucumber can help soothe irritated eyes<\/strong>, while the natural coolness reduces puffiness<\/strong> and provides a refreshing feeling<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

          This is how the application works:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
            \n
          1. Cut<\/strong> a fresh cucumber<\/strong> into thin slices<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          2. Place the slices in the fridge<\/strong> for 5-10 minutes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          3. Then place a slice of cucumber on each closed eyelid<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          4. Relax for 10-15 minutes<\/strong>, then rinse the eyes with clear water.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n

            Why does the cucumber help?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
              \n
            • Moisturizes<\/strong>, which can be beneficial<\/strong> for dry eyes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Has a cooling effect<\/strong> and can reduce swelling of the eyelids<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Contains vitamin A and antioxidants<\/strong> that care for the skin around the eyes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

              Important:<\/strong> Although cucumber helps to soothe<\/strong> the eyes<\/strong>, it does not stabilize the tear film<\/strong>. Anyone suffering from dry eyes<\/strong> should therefore also use other effective home remedies<\/strong> or eye drops<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

              Don’t forget to blink for natural moisturizing <\/h3>\n\n

              It sounds simple, but is often neglected: blinking regularly<\/strong> is the easiest way to moisturize the eyes<\/strong> and keep the tear film stable<\/strong>. We blink too infrequently, especially when working at a screen for long periods<\/strong> or reading with concentration – the tear fluid evaporates more quickly<\/strong> and the eyes become dry<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

              Tip for everyday life:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
                \n
              • Consciously blink more often<\/strong>, especially at the screen.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Use the 20-20-20 rule<\/strong>: Look into the distance for 20 seconds<\/strong> every 20 minutes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Squeeze your eyes hard<\/strong> from time to time to stimulate tear production<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

                Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy eyes<\/h3>\n\n

                Omega-3 fatty acids<\/strong> play an important role in eye health<\/strong> and can help to alleviate dry eyes<\/strong>. They support the production of tear fluid<\/strong>, stabilize the tear film<\/strong> and have an anti-inflammatory<\/strong> effect, which is particularly beneficial for chronically dry eyes<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

                Which foods are rich in omega-3?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
                  \n
                • Oily fish<\/strong> (salmon, mackerel, herring)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Linseed & chia seeds<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Walnuts & almonds<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Rapeseed and linseed oil<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

                  Studies show that a diet rich in omega-3<\/strong> improves the lipid layer of the tear film<\/strong> so that the tear fluid does not evaporate as quickly<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n

                  Drink enough: have enough water in your body<\/h3>\n\n

                  Adequate hydration<\/strong> is essential for the production of tear fluid<\/strong>. If you drink too little, the tear film<\/strong> can become unstable<\/strong> and the eyes dry out more quickly<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

                  Tips for drinking enough fluids:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
                    \n
                  • Drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water<\/strong> daily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Herbal tea or unsweetened drinks as an alternative.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • If the air is dry, pay even more attention to your fluid intake<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

                    Drinking enough not only moisturizes your body, but also your eyes – from the inside out!<\/p>\n\n

                    Eye drops to soothe the eyes <\/h3>\n\n

                    Even though they are not strictly speaking a home remedy<\/strong>, eye drops for very dry eyes<\/strong> are often the quickest and most effective solution to soothe irritated, itchy eyes<\/strong>. They help to stabilize<\/strong> the tear film<\/strong>, moisturize the surface of the eye<\/strong> and relieve symptoms such as burning or redness<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

                    Which eye drops are suitable?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
                      \n
                    • No preservatives<\/strong> – particularly important for sensitive eyes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Drops containing hyaluronic acid<\/strong> – provide intensive moisture and stabilize the tear film.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Lipid-containing drops<\/strong> – help with a disturbed lipid layer of the tear film<\/strong> (e.g. with Meibomian gland dysfunction).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Omega-3-containing drops<\/strong> – support natural tear production<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

                      Where can I get eye drops?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
                        \n
                      • In the pharmacy<\/strong> (often with individual advice).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                      • In drugstores or online<\/strong> – but here you should look out for reputable manufacturers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

                        How often should I use eye drops?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
                          \n
                        • As required<\/strong> – depending on the dryness of the eyes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Usually 1-2 drops per eye<\/strong>, up to several times a day<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Anyone who needs them very frequently should seek long-term medical advice<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

                          Tip:<\/strong> Eye drops are particularly helpful when working at a screen for long periods, in dry air or with contact lenses<\/strong>. Anyone who suffers from chronically dry eyes<\/strong> should use suitable drops<\/strong> regularly to keep<\/strong> their eyes healthy in the long term<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

                          Avoid dry eyes: Don’t even need home remedies for dry eyes<\/h2>\n\n

                          Of course, it is best if dry eyes do not occur in the first place<\/strong>. With a few simple measures, the tear fluid can be stabilized<\/strong> so that home remedies or eye drops<\/strong> are not even necessary. <\/p>\n\n

                          Tips for preventing dry eyes:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
                            \n
                          • Avoid draughts and dry heating air<\/strong> – ventilate regularly or use a humidifier<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Adjust screen work<\/strong> – consciously blink<\/strong> every 20 minutes<\/strong> and regularly look into the distance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Healthy diet with omega-3 fatty acids<\/strong> – promotes the production of tear fluid<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Drink enough<\/strong> – at least 1.5-2 liters of water daily<\/strong> to keep<\/strong> the eyes moist<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • UV protection for the eyes<\/strong> – sunglasses with a UV filter<\/strong> protect against irritation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

                            When home remedies are no longer enough for relief: Time for a visit to the ophthalmologist <\/h2>\n\n

                            Home remedies can often help with mild symptoms<\/strong>, but sometimes they are not enough. If dry eyes do not improve<\/strong> or even get worse despite regular care and home remedies<\/strong>, it is time to see an ophthalmologist<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n

                            When a visit to the doctor is necessary:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
                              \n
                            • Persistent or severe symptoms<\/strong> for which home remedies do not provide relief.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Visual disturbances such as blurred vision or sensitivity to light.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Red, painful or swollen eyes<\/strong>, which could indicate inflammation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Purulent discharge or sticky eyelids<\/strong>, which can be a sign of infection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Dry eyes due to medication or pre-existing conditions<\/strong> such as diabetes or rheumatism.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n

                              An ophthalmologist can determine the exact cause<\/strong> of dry eyes and recommend targeted treatment<\/strong> – from special eye drops<\/strong> to therapy for the Meibomian glands<\/strong>. If you want to maintain<\/strong> your eye health in the long term<\/strong>, you should not wait too long if home remedies are no longer sufficient<\/strong>! <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                              When your eyes burn, itch and feel like sandpaper, it’s not just unpleasant – it can ruin your whole day….<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":29590,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[210],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-29798","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-knowledge-about-the-eye"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29798","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=29798"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29798\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/29590"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=29798"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=29798"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eyelaser.at\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=29798"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}