Dry eyes are no longer just a condition associated with adults; they’re becoming increasingly common in children too. With more kids spending hours on screens and facing environmental irritants, pediatric ophthalmologists and optometrists are seeing a noticeable rise in young patients experiencing discomfort. If you’ve been looking for practical strategies to address this issue, you’re in the right place. Here are five effective tips for helping young patients with dry eyes, designed to make a real difference in their daily lives.
Encourage Regular Breaks During Screen Time
One of the most common factors contributing to dry eyes in children is excessive screen time. Whether it’s online classes, homework, or gaming, kids blink less and refocus less when staring at screens, which reduces tear production. A great way to combat this is to remind young patients (and their parents) about the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, kids should look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple habit can significantly reduce eye strain while keeping their eyes naturally lubricated.
Advise on Proper Hydration
Hydration plays a much bigger role in eye health than most people realize. Dehydration can reduce tear production, worsening dry eye symptoms. Make it a point to stress the importance of drinking water throughout the day, especially for active kids who may not drink enough. You can suggest carrying a reusable water bottle that they can refill as needed, helping them stay consistent with their hydration routine.
Suggest Using a Humidifier
Dry environments can worsen dry eyes, especially during colder months when heaters dry out the air indoors. A humidifier is a simple yet effective solution for maintaining moisture in the air, which can alleviate eye discomfort. Recommending the use of a humidifier in bedrooms or study spaces can significantly improve their eye comfort.
Recommend Lubricating Eye Drops for Kids
When dry eyes persist despite lifestyle adjustments, lubricating eye drops can make a world of difference. Be sure to recommend eye drops specifically formulated for children and guide parents on how to use them safely. Remind them to always consult with you or a pharmacist before purchasing over-the-counter options.
Explore Further Treatment Options
If symptoms persist and eye drops aren’t providing relief—or are too challenging for parents to administer—it may be time to explore alternative treatments like punctal plugs. These tiny devices help retain the natural moisture in the eyes and can be a fantastic solution for more severe cases. There’s a choice between long-term and short-term punctal plugs, and the right one will depend on your patient’s symptoms. Discussing these options with parents emphasizes the importance of tailoring treatments to the child’s unique needs.
Dry eyes can affect a child’s comfort, focus, and even their emotional well-being, making proactive management essential. These tips for helping young patients with dry eyes are easy to implement and can go a long way in ensuring their everyday comfort and health. Whether it’s encouraging screen breaks or exploring advanced treatments, these steps will set your patients up for lasting health and happier days.
