Dry Eye Prevention

Prevention

It is not possible to prevent keratoconjunctivitis sicca; however, it is possible to prevent complications of keratoconjunctivitis sicca—such as infections—from developing. To help reduce your chance that the condition will worsen, take the following steps:

• Try to avoid excessively dry environments—Furnaces and air conditioning can dry the air, which can evaporate tears too quickly. You may want to use a humidifier, which is a machine that puts moisture back into the air to prevent dry eyes.
• Dusty and smoky areas can aggravate symptoms—If possible, limit time spent in these areas.
• Avoid prolonged visual tasks—Staring at a computer screen, driving, watching television, and reading may worsen symptoms.
• Promptly use artificial tears—This is important to prevent the eye surface from drying out.

Most cases of keratoconjunctivitis sicca are not serious, and while uncomfortable and irritating, pose no real danger to the eye. However, it is still important to receive evaluation and diagnosis to prevent any of the more dangerous consequences of this condition. As always, a prompt discussion with your doctor is the best prevention of long-term consequences.