A DOZEN WAYS TO DEAL WITH DRY EYE

brought to you by SOLA EyeQ:

Because of hormonal changes, pregnant and postmenopausal women may experience a condition of the eye called dry eye. Here are steps you can take to battle this uncomfortable condition.

• Reduce caffeine intake. Caffeine dehydrates you and your eyes.
• Reduce intake of alcohol.
• Stop smoking.
• Drink lots of water - eight glasses a day, if possible.
• Install a humidifier if your home is extremely dry.
• Take the lowest dose possible of fluid-reduction medications, such as antihistamines and diuretics (discuss with your physician).
• Remove contact lenses when you are sleeping.
• Reduce contact-lens wearing time during the day, if necessary.
• Ask your eye doctor about changing to different contact lenses.
• Use the over-the-counter artificial tears.
• If dry eye is moderate to severe, try a thicker drop or a lubricating ointment at bedtime.
• If all else fails, talk to your eye doctor about punctal plugs or a laser procedure to close tear ducts.