Pregnancy can cause many changes in your body—some expected and some surprising. If you notice that your eyes feel gritty (like there’s sand in them), irritated, or unusually dry, you may be dealing with pregnancy-related dry eye. Many pregnant women experience dry eye, also known as dry eye syndrome, and it is typically harmless. In this blog, we discuss why this happens, how you can find some relief, and when you should see an eye care professional.
Why am I experiencing dry eyes during pregnancy?
Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes don’t make enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect almost every part of your body, including your eyes! Here’s why dry eyes might be bothering you right now:
- Hormonal changes: Your body is producing more estrogen and progesterone, which can affect your tear production and the consistency of your tears. These changes can leave your eyes feeling dry and irritated.
- Fluid retention: Pregnancy often leads to fluid retention, which can impact the eyes. The same hormonal shifts that cause swelling in your feet and hands can also affect your tear ducts, leading to dryness.
- More screen time: Many people spend a lot of time on phones, tablets, and computers, especially during pregnancy when rest is a priority. When we stare at screens, we tend to blink less often, causing tears to evaporate more quickly.
- Environmental factors: Changes in the weather, indoor heating or air conditioning, or living in a dry climate can cause or worsen dry eye symptoms. When you’re pregnant, your body might be more sensitive to these changes.
Should I be worried about dry eyes during pregnancy?
The good news is that dry eyes during pregnancy are usually not a cause for concern. For most women, this condition is temporary and linked to the hormonal changes your body is going through. However, if you’re experiencing severe discomfort, blurry vision, or symptoms that don’t improve with home remedies, it’s important to consult an eye care professional. They can determine whether other underlying conditions might be contributing to your symptoms.
How to manage dry eyes during pregnancy
The discomfort of dry eyes can be annoying, but there are plenty of ways to find relief! Here are some tips to help manage your symptoms:
- Try artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can provide quick relief from dryness and irritation. Look for preservative-free options, as they’re gentler on your eyes.
- Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and your eyes hydrated.
- Take breaks from screens: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, focus on an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to help prevent eye strain and give your eyes some much-needed rest.
- Use a humidifier: A humidifier can help prevent dry eyes, especially if you’re dealing with dry air from heaters or air conditioning. Try to avoid sitting directly in front of vents that blow dry air into your face.
- Practice good eye hygiene: Gently clean your eyelids with a warm, damp washcloth to remove any debris or oil buildup that could irritate your eyes.
- Protect your eyes: If you’re out in the wind or sun, wear sunglasses or wraparound glasses to shield your eyes from the elements. This can help prevent further irritation.
In conclusion, dry eyes during pregnancy are usually just another temporary inconvenience, much like morning sickness or swelling, that will likely improve after your baby arrives. However, in some cases, dry eye symptoms can be more persistent or severe, causing significant discomfort or even interfering with your daily activities. If you notice your symptoms worsening or if you experience additional issues like blurred vision, extreme sensitivity to light, or persistent pain, it might be a sign that something else is going on.
If you’re looking for dry eye treatment in Portland, Maine, Dr. Giles at Giles Eye Care is experienced in diagnosing and treating dry eyes. He can conduct a comprehensive eye exam to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend more targeted treatments, such as prescription eye drops or other therapies that might be more effective for you. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.