These Surprising Habits Might Be Causing Your Eye Irritation

Updated on 8/23/2018 at 6:00 AM

Paid Content For

eyelove®

We all experience unexplained and frustrating eye irritation on occasion. This can sometimes even feel like a foreign body is in your eye, and at worst, it can disrupt your day entirely. The good news is that there are many ways you can help the symptoms of dry eye! From staring at your screen for hours at a time and leaving the ceiling fan on overnight to leaving contact lenses in too long, here are some of the habits that unexpectedly exacerbate dry eye and our simple tricks for mitigating their effects.

Not Using an Air Purifier

Investing in an air purifier for your home will help to alleviate allergy symptoms. They are good for helping you breathe and are also great for keeping your peepers hydrated.

Leaving a Ceiling Fan on Overnight

Cool down the room and then switch it off. It sounds extreme, but the wind created by a ceiling fan can irritate already-dry eyes. Leave it on overnight on a lower speed or turn it off.

Staring at Your Screen Through All Hours of the Night

Not only does this inhibit your body's production of melatonin, a hormone that helps you fall asleep, but it also can contribute to sore eyes. Institute a "no screens after 9, 10, or 11 p.m." rule to ensure you'll be screen-free for at least an hour before bed, or use an antiglare screen cover on your computer to reduce irritation.

Leaving Your Contact Lenses in Too Long

Leaving your lenses in until the late hours of the evening can irritate your eyes. Take 'em out and don your glasses as midnight approaches for more comfortable surfing and working.

Not Paying Attention to Your Diet

Are you eating enough omega-3 fatty acids? Found in foods like fish and walnuts, these nutrients may help with symptoms of dry eye. If you don't consume enough of these foods, taking supplements may also help.

Sleeping With Mascara or Eyeliner On

The particles from your eye makeup can get into your eyes when left on overnight. Always remove any cosmetics from your eye area with makeup remover or a wipe, then wash your face with your regular face wash before bed.

© 2018 Shire US Inc. Lexington MA, 02421. All rights reserved. Shire and the Shire Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Shire Pharmaceutical Holdings Ireland Limited or its affiliates. The EYELOVE logo and marks designated ® and ™ are owned by Shire or an affiliated company. S39569 05/18