Dry Eye Headache in Seniors: What It Is and How to Manage It

Recent studies show that 10-20% of the population over 40 years of age report moderate to severe symptoms of dry eye syndrome. You may experience it yourself; you've noticed burning and stinging more and more as you age.

Dry eyes can be a real nuisance, considering that we use our vision for vital daily tasks. Not only can they be annoying, but they can also be debilitating, especially if symptoms get worse.

For example, seniors in Melbourne, FL, may get dry eye headaches. What's a dry eye headache, what are the symptoms, and how can you manage them? Read on to find out more.

What Are Dry Eye Headaches?

Dry eye headaches are headaches that happen as a result of dry eye syndrome. This condition can also worsen your existing headaches.

It's true that dry eyes and headaches are different conditions, but the reality is that they can influence one another. For instance, if your eyes are irritated, strained, or inflamed from dryness, then this can trigger tension around your eyes and forehead. As a result, you'll get a headache.

Seniors are more prone to dry eye headaches for several reasons. For one, as we age, we go through hormonal changes (particularly in postmenopausal women) and have decreased tear production. Also, we typically have underlying conditions, such as:

• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Thyroid issues

Because of the above conditions, the use of medications is common. Things like antihistamines, blood pressure meds, and antidepressants can all reduce tear production.

Lastly, older adults are likely to have long-term screen exposure without proper eye care.

Headache and Dry Eye Symptoms in Aging

Vision issues in elderly people can be frustrating enough, but if you add in senior eye pain and headaches, it can be too much.

Here's what to watch out for regarding headaches caused by dry eye syndrome.

Eye Symptoms

The classic sign of dry eyes is a gritty, burning, or stinging sensation. There may be redness or inflammation, too.

It may seem like a strange symptom, but you can have excessive tearing. This is a sign of your eye trying to compensate for dryness. As a result, you may experience blurry or fluctuating vision as well.

Headache Symptoms

When dry eyes result in a headache, you'll feel a dull and throbbing pain behind your eyes or in the forehead. And if you move your eyes, there's a pressure there that gets worse.

Typically, you'll experience discomfort after doing visual tasks.

How to Manage Dry Eye Headaches in Seniors

To tackle these pesky headaches, you'll need a multi-pronged approach. This involves both medical treatments and lifestyle changes.

Try Artificial Tears

There are over-the-counter lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) you can try. These will help keep your eyes moist and reduce irritation that can lead to headaches. For the best results, opt for preservative-free eye drops.

You should apply them 3-4 times daily, or as needed. Store them in the refrigerator, as cool drops can help with inflammation.

Use Warm Compresses

Warm compresses are great for unclogging oil glands. When your eyes can produce oils normally, this can improve tear quality.

Take a microwaveable eye mask or a warm, damp cloth, and apply it over your eyes for 5-10 minutes. Do this daily, especially before bed.

Practice the 20-20-20 Rule

Eye strain in assisted living is common since older adults like to relax with a good book or go on their computer, smartphone, or tablet. Before you know it, you've spent hours staring, barely blinking, and this can exacerbate dry eye syndrome.

An easy fix is to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Do this every 20 minutes (20-20-20 rule).

Keep Up With Hydration

Inadequate hydration can cause a number of health issues, including both dry eyes and headaches. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) suggests that seniors drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

In addition, you should limit your intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as these are diuretics.

Adjust Your Indoor Environments

Seniors spend more time indoors, and environmental factors can affect eye moisture. Our suggestions include:

• Use a humidifier
• Avoid fans or direct HVAC vents
• Wear wraparound glasses

Consider Omega-3 Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids support eye health, and they may reduce dry eye symptoms. You can get more of these fatty acids by eating foods like:

• Salmon
• Walnuts
• Chia seeds

If you'd rather take supplements, then speak with your doctor first before doing so.

Monitor and Adjust Medications

Many seniors take medications that cause dry eye as a side effect. This is why you should review your current prescriptions with your doctor.

If any cause dry eye symptoms, then ask about alternatives that are less drying. Or you can consider tear-boosting meds, like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra).

Wear Proper Eyewear

To lessen eye strain, use blue light-blocking lenses while on digital devices. You can wear them outside too, even if you're doing other activities.

If you have light sensitivity, photochromic lenses can help, especially with reducing headaches. Prescription reading glasses can help you avoid squinting and straining, too.

Treat Underlying Conditions

If your dry eye is linked to another condition (such as rheumatoid arthritis or thyroid disease), then treating the root cause can reduce symptoms. Ask your doctor for a dry eye evaluation in that case.

Seek Professional Treatment

If the above don't help, then assisted living and memory care vision support is of the utmost importance. At an ophthalmological appointment, they may recommend:

• Punctal plugs
• Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops
• Lid hygiene treatments

Say Goodbye to Your Dry Eye Headache

Having a dry eye headache is no fun, especially since your symptoms are multiplied. However, these headaches are often treatable if you put the above tips to use.

More specifically, make an effort to address the dry eye syndrome and the underlying cause first. When your eyes are properly lubricated again, you'll see the associated headaches disappear, and you'll experience a much better quality of life.

Get in touch with us now to learn more about senior living in Melbourne, FL. Discovery Village Melbourne offers a resort lifestyle with three delicious restaurant-style meals prepared daily.