Wake Up with Dry Eyes? Here's How to Fix Them ASAP!

Waking up with dry eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable start to your day. The feeling of grittiness, itchiness, and blurred vision is far from ideal. However, you're not alone in experiencing this issue. Morning dry eye, also known as nocturnal lagophthalmos, occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is insufficient to keep your eyes lubricated throughout the night. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to alleviate this discomfort and start your day with refreshed eyes.

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes. Make sure you drink enough water throughout the day, and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, which can lead to dehydration.

Use a Humidifier: Dry air in your bedroom can exacerbate morning dry eyes. Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air while you sleep.

Warm Compress: Applying a specific warm compress to your closed eyelids for a few minutes can help to loosen any blockages in the meibomian glands, which produce the oil component of your tears. This can improve tear quality and prevent evaporation.

Lid Hygiene: Regular eyelid hygiene can help remove any debris or excess oils that may contribute to dry eyes. Gently clean your eyelids with a specialized eyelid scrub or a warm washcloth.

Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide immediate relief. Use preservative-free eye drops, and consider applying them before bed and upon waking. Use only brand name eye drops recommended by Monarch Bay Optometry. There have been many recalls recently.

Overnight Ointments: Lubricating ointments, designed for overnight use, can provide prolonged relief by creating a protective barrier over the eyes. Consult with Monarch Bay Optometry to determine the best product for your needs.

Stay Allergy-Free: Allergies can contribute to dry eyes. Ensure your bedroom is allergen-free and consider using allergy eye drops if needed.

Sleep Position: The way you sleep can impact the severity of morning dry eye. If you sleep with your eyes partially open, consider using a sleep mask to keep them closed. Additionally, adjusting your sleep position to avoid pressing your face against the pillow can help prevent further irritation.

Consult with Monarch Bay Optometry: If your morning dry eyes persist or worsen, call us to make an appointment for a consultation. We can perform a comprehensive eye examination to identify any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Remember that morning dry eyes may have multiple causes, and the treatment that works best for you may vary. By implementing these tips and consulting with an eye care professional, you can effectively manage and alleviate the discomfort associated with waking up with dry eyes. Don't let morning dry eyes disrupt your daily routine—take steps to improve your eye health and well-being.