If you struggle with dry, irritated eyes, you’re not alone—millions of people experience dry eye syndrome, a condition caused by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. While artificial tears and specialized treatments can help, one of the simplest and often overlooked factors in eye health is hydration. Could drinking more water be the key to relieving your symptoms?
At The Solution Center, we believe in addressing the root causes of dry eye, and hydration plays a bigger role than many people realize. Let’s explore how staying hydrated impacts tear production and what you can do to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
How Does Hydration Affect Tear Production?
Tears are made up of three essential layers:
- Aqueous layer (water-based) – Provides hydration and nutrients.
- Lipid layer (oil-based) – Prevents tears from evaporating too quickly.
- Mucin layer (protein-based) – Helps spread tears evenly across the eye.
Since tears are primarily composed of water, dehydration can reduce tear production, making your eyes feel dry, gritty, and irritated. When the body lacks sufficient water, it prioritizes essential organs like the heart and brain, leaving less moisture for tear production.
Signs That Dehydration May Be Affecting Your Eyes
You may not always feel thirsty, but your eyes might be telling you that you need more water. Common signs include:
- Dry, scratchy, or irritated eyes
- Redness or a burning sensation
- Blurry vision that improves after blinking
- Eye fatigue, especially after screen use
- Increased sensitivity to light
If you frequently experience these symptoms, increasing your water intake could make a noticeable difference.
How Much Water Should You Drink for Eye Health?
While the general recommendation is eight 8-ounce glasses per day (the 8x8 rule), individual needs vary based on age, activity level, and climate. A good rule of thumb is:
- Men: Around 3.7 liters (125 oz) per day
- Women: Around 2.7 liters (91 oz) per day
If you live in a dry or hot climate, spend long hours in front of screens, or have a history of dry eye, you may need even more fluids to maintain proper hydration.
Other Ways to Support Hydration for Dry Eyes
While drinking enough water is essential, other lifestyle adjustments can further help retain moisture and improve tear quality:
1. Eat Hydrating, Eye-Healthy Foods
Incorporate water-rich foods into your diet, such as:
- Cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and leafy greens (high in water content)
- Omega-3-rich foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts (support tear production)
2. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
Both caffeine and alcohol can contribute to dehydration and exacerbate dry eye symptoms. If you consume them, be sure to balance your intake with extra water.
3. Use a Humidifier
Dry indoor air, especially from heating and air conditioning, can evaporate tears quickly. A humidifier can help maintain proper moisture levels in your environment.
4. Take Breaks from Screens
Prolonged screen time reduces blinking, leading to increased dryness. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to rest your eyes.
5. Use Artificial Tears
If hydration alone isn’t enough, preservative-free artificial tears can help supplement your tear film and provide additional relief.
When to Seek Professional Dry Eye Treatment
While proper hydration is an important factor in eye health, it may not be enough if you have chronic dry eye syndrome. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, blurry vision, or redness, it’s time to seek expert care.
At The Solution Center, we offer comprehensive dry eye evaluations and personalized treatment options, including:
- Advanced diagnostic testing to determine the root cause of your dry eyes
- Prescription eye drops and speciaelized treatments for long-term relief
- Lifestyle recommendations tailored to your specific needs
Prioritize Your Eye Health—Stay Hydrated & Schedule an Exam
Drinking more water is a simple yet powerful way to support your eye health, but if dry eyes continue to affect your daily life, professional treatment may be necessary.
Schedule an eye exam with The Solution Center to discuss your symptoms and find the best solution for lasting relief.