It’s Essential to Stay Hydrated for The Health of Your Eyes
As the temperature is rising, it’s crucial to drink enough water to stay hydrated. However, drinking those extra glasses of water offers added advantages that you might not be aware of.
Although most of us associate dehydration with symptoms of thirst, dry mouth, dry lips, and sometimes dizziness, it can also impact your eyes, as the human body is 70% water. We should consume 6 to 8 glasses of water each day, and more so if it’s hot outside or you’re working out.
What causes dehydration?
Some of the more common causes are:
- Stress
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Diabetes
- Prescription drugs
- Excessive salt consumption
Along with these, the body also loses water through sweat and perspiration.
How can you say that your eyes are dehydrated?
The following are signs of dry eyes:
- Burning, red eyes
- Blurred vision
- A feeling of a foreign body in your eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Headache and discomfort
- Inflammation
- Vision problems
How can being hydrated benefit your eyes?
Staying hydrated is indeed essential for overall health, including eye health. Here’s how proper hydration benefits your eyes:
- Tear production: Adequate hydration is crucial for the production of tears, which help keep the eyes lubricated and nourished. Tears are essential for maintaining clear vision, preventing dryness, and protecting the surface of the eye from irritants and infections.
- Nutrient transport: Proper hydration promotes the efficient transport of essential nutrients to the eyes. The eyes require a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. When you’re well-hydrated, blood circulation improves, allowing vital nutrients to reach the eyes more effectively.
- Eye pressure regulation: Hydration plays a role in maintaining proper intraocular pressure. Intraocular pressure refers to the pressure inside the eyes. Fluctuations in intraocular pressure can potentially lead to conditions like glaucoma, which can damage the optic nerve and impair vision. Staying hydrated helps regulate intraocular pressure and reduces the risk of such conditions.
- Waste removal: Hydration aids in the removal of waste products from the eyes. Metabolic waste and toxins can accumulate in the eyes, leading to discomfort and potential damage. Sufficient hydration helps flush out these waste products, ensuring the eyes stay clean and healthy.
How to keep your eyes hydrated
To keep your eyes hydrated and prevent eye problems, follow the below tips:
- Keep the air moist in your house by using a humidifier during the dry months of autumn and winter.
- Remind yourself to blink frequently, especially when using computers, mobile devices, or watching television. Additionally, it is advised to take proper breaks while using digital devices to avoid dry eyes.
- Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from wind or UV rays.
- Turn down the temperature, as hot rooms can lead to dry eyes.
- Avoid smoking because it dries out your eyes.
- Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to keep your eyes and body hydrated.
Last but not least, remember that being hydrated can keep you healthy and help in the long-term prevention of eye problems.
A note from Ojas – Eye Hospital
To stay hydrated for optimal eye health, it’s generally recommended to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. The exact amount may vary depending on individual factors, such as age, weight, activity level, and climate. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine your specific hydration needs.
It’s important to note that while hydration is crucial, it is not a cure-all for eye conditions. If you experience persistent eye problems or have specific concerns about your eye health, it’s advisable to consult our team of eye specialists at Ojas – Eye Hospital in Mumbai for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment.
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