Dehydration can impact your entire body, including your eyes.
The tear film is a unique layer of fluid and mucus that covers your eyeball.
There are three layers of tear film, including the oily layer, watery layer, and mucus layer.
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The middle portion of the tear film is made up primarily of water.
When you become dehydrated, the watery layer can become too thin and affects the tear film.
Dehydration also decreases tear production.
Its recommended to drink between 2 and 3 liters of fluid each day.
Your diet also plays a role in dry eye symptoms.
Over-the-counter treatments are available to help manage symptoms, like topical drops and gels.
In some cases, you may need prescription-strength medication to relieve dry eye symptoms.
A physician can also help you create a plan to manage dry eye symptoms long term.
Summary
Dehydration impacts the whole body, including your eyes.
Dry eyes arent only uncomfortable, they can lead to complications, too.
Your healthcare provider can help you create a plan to manage your symptoms long term.
Its unlikely that dry eyes will lead to blindness, especially in developed countries like the United States.
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