There are layers of tears in the eyes to keep them healthy. The tears provide moisture and lubrication. But at times, these tears can evaporate and result in dry eyes. You can identify dry eyes if there is a slight but constant irritation and inflammation in your eyes. Depending on the severity of the condition, there are treatment options available. Read on to know more.

1. Artificial tears
Artificial tears are available for mild dry eyes caused by reading, excess screen time, and other reasons. The artificial tears offer lubrication to the eyes. Many brands offer over-the-counter eye drops available in different ingredients and viscosity.

2. Low-viscosity drops
The artificial tears with low viscosity will have a watery and thin consistency. It offers quick relief to the eyes only with a slight blurring of eyes during application. However, its effects are for a short time only. You may have to use these drops more frequently to get relief from dry eyes.

3. High-viscosity drops
The artificial tears with high viscosity are thicker and gel-like. It offers lubrication for the eyes for a longer time. After the drops are applied, they will blur the eyes for several minutes. It is not suitable for use during the workday or while driving. The best time to use these drops is before going to bed.

4. Eye inserts
For moderate to severe dry eyes, there is a treatment option known as Lacriserts. It looks like a fine grain of rice. The inserts are placed in the lower eyelid and eyeball. The insert dissolves and releases eye drops that will lubricate the eyes. A single Lacrisert once a day is enough for most people with dry eyes. It helps in curing watery eyes, burning, dryness, itching, and light sensitivity.

5. Warm compresses
There are oil-secreting glands located in the margin of the eyes called meibomian glands. If the meibomian glands are clogged, then it causes dry eyes. That is why warm compress is a beneficial treatment to unclog the glands. For the warm compress treatment to work, the compress has to be 108 degrees Fahrenheit. You can apply the warm compress twice a day. This treatment is not enough for severe dry eyes.

6. Punctal plugs
The Punctal plug is a tiny sterile device inserted in the small openings of the eyes termed as Puncta. These are the tear drainage ducts of the eyes located in the inner corner of the eyelids. The Puncta stops the tears from draining, ensuring enough lubrication.