Dry eyes is one problem that you never want to deal with while you are competing in a triathlon. Luckily, there are some simple steps that you can take to ensure that your eyes remain hydrated and comfortable throughout your race.
Consume Fatty Acids
You might be surprised to hear that your diet is going to play a major role in your eye health. Recent studies have revealed that eating foods that contain fatty acids could help relieve dry eyes. Some experts believe that fatty acids reduce general inflammation, and that includes inflammation of the eyes. Those acids can improve the quality and quantity of your tears as well, and that is going to have a huge impact on your comfort during triathlons. You should also avoid highly processed foods, sweeteners, and other products that could increase your risk of eye inflammation.
Use Ointments and Drops
Many people are able to treat their dry eyes with nothing more than over-the-counter ointments and drops. That being said, you might want to spend some time researching those products before you head to the pharmacy. The three most common types of eye drops are artificial tears, allergy drops, and anti-redness drops. For triathletes, artificial tears will probably be the best option, but you need to make sure that you get a high-quality product that includes both lubricants and electrolytes. That combination tends to be the best choice for endurance athletes who struggle with dry eyes.
Consider Professional Treatments
If dietary changes and over-the-counter products aren’t working, then it might be time to consider a professional dry eye treatment. This condition is sometimes caused by bacterial debris and contaminated film that builds up in the eyes, and having those germs removed could provide you with immediate relief. As a general rule, you should speak with an eye doctor if your dry eyes last for more than a week or two. You must also contact an eye doctor if your dry eyes are impacting your daily life. Those could both be signs of an eye infection that must be treated immediately.
In addition to these few tips and tricks, you might also want to spend a little bit of time researching any medications that you are taking. Dry eyes could be a side effect of your medications, and you should speak with your doctor about altering your doses or switching to an alternative prescription.