Have you ever had it where blinking hurts your eyes instead of making them feel better? This situation is very similar to a windshield wiper going across a dry windshield! This condition is called lid wiper epitheliopathy. Here are 3 ways to avoid this painful issue:
HYDRATE
First off, you need to hydrate your eyes! Artificial tears do this but you need to make sure you are using the right drops. We recommend using SYSTANE® COMPLETE. SYSTANE® COMPLETE replaces the oil layer that comes from your eyelids. This is a good substitude until you can get your glands to function normally on their own. The oil layer keeps the tears on your eyes which will make sure they stay moist and comfortable.
LID HYGIENE
It is critical that you keep your lids and lashes clean. It’s a very simple and easy habit that will work wonders with how your eyes feel. We recommend using Hypochlorous Acid Spray, Tea Tree Foam Cleansers and a warm compress. These help clean bacteria off of your lids and lashes and help your glands express that oil.
PROTECT
Finally, to set yourself up for a successful day free of lid wiper epitheliopathy, start the night before with a protective ointment on your eyes. OPTASE® HYLO Night Ointment is one that we recommend. This is a vitamin A derivative which is an antioxidant. Antioxidants help our bodies heal which is what you need as you go to bed. OPTASE® HYLO Night Ointment is going to help your lids heal faster, so when you wake up, your eyes are going to be more comfortable.
There is no reason you should be living with this kind of eye pain. Try out these tips and see how much better you feel! As always though, if things don’t improve or you have additional questions, give us a call at (616) 219-8153. Schedule an appointment here and we will get you taken care of.