Warm or Cold Compress for Dry Eyes: Which Is the Best?

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Dry eyes occur when the normal tears are out of balance. These tears provide moisture and lubrication to the eyes to make them comfortable or functional. Tears also protect the eyes from possible infection.

Without the regular production of tears, the eyes are prone to struggle with dryness.

Aside from the natural aging process, a more common cause is screen time. Another cause of dry eye is blepharitis or allergies.

Warm Compress or Cold Compress?

There are two compresses: the warm compress and the cold compress. For people who want to know which is the better treatment, here is a guide to compare the two options.

Warm Compress for Dry Eyes

Warm compress is best for people who struggle with dry eyes due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction.

By increasing blood circulation and stimulating the oil glands, warm compress allows the eyes to feel relaxed.

It is also ideal for people who find that their tears evaporate too quickly.

Other people feel comfortable with the warm sensation from the compress. That’s because heat loosens oil glands within the eye and helps them to flow better.

Here is one of my favourite warm compresses (I use two in a row everyday).

Tear restore
Warm compresses showing how they activate with a click. You can see through them too!

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Cold Compress for Dry Eyes

Cold compress reduce the circulation of blood around the eyes.

The cold sensation helps relieve the burning or painful feeling due to eye strain.

It is also an excellent remedy for eye strains due to overexposure to screens, reducing the irritation and headaches that are caused by eye strains. 

Cold compress is better for people with itching or allergies. Allergies can often go alongside with dry eyes.

Summary

Warm and cold compresses are both effective remedies for alleviating the symptoms of dry eyes.

People who suffer from dry eyes must choose the type of solution depending on their condition. However, experts also recommend using the two remedies hand-in-hand.

You may start with a cold compress for about five minutes. If the pain or discomfort persists, try the warm compress right after. This may be done alternately until the symptoms become lighter or totally eliminated.

For more information about dry eyes, consult with the specialists from the Dry Eye Directory. We offer reliable medical advice to provide dry eye relief.

Our aim is to educate you about dry eyes and connect you to a local dry eye clinic. Browse to find a dry eye doctor today.

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