Author: Julia Williams

Enhance Curb Appeal With Concrete Driveways

Julia Williams

Concrete is a highly versatile and affordable material that can be used in a variety of ways. It provides a durable paving solution that offers a multitude of design options and can boost curb appeal.

Concrete Driveways

Once the size and shape is settled, a concrete team will prepare the surface by creating forms for the concrete to be poured. Weather conditions are a huge factor in concrete curing and should be monitored closely. Contact Highlands Ranch Concrete Driveways for professional help.

Concrete is a highly durable material and can withstand heavy loads without cracking or breaking. Typically, concrete driveways last for 30 years or more when they are properly poured and maintained. This longevity makes them a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing option.

The key factors that contribute to a concrete driveway’s durability are the type of base foundation used, the mix design, and proper curing. Additionally, adequate reinforcement and appropriate thickness help to distribute the weight evenly across the surface. Using the correct mix proportions, a solid subgrade and adequate base preparation, as well as strategically placed stress joints can eliminate cracking.

Weather conditions also have a large impact on the lifespan of concrete. Extreme heat, cold, and sudden temperature changes can diminish a concrete’s strength. Concrete that is exposed to sunlight, pollutants, and other foreign substances will also have a short lifespan compared to a more protected concrete.

To avoid premature deterioration, a concrete driveway should be allowed to cure for at least 28 days. During this time, the concrete will gain about 70% of its full strength. After the concrete has reached full strength, it can be used for parking heavier vehicles, such as trucks or RVs. However, it is important to wait until this point before doing so in order to give the concrete ample time to reach maximum strength.

Regularly cleaning a concrete driveway and applying a penetrating sealer will help protect the surface from sun damage, salt, staining, and moisture. Resealing the driveway will also extend its life and keep it looking fresh and new.

Another factor that affects the durability of a concrete driveway is the number and depth of cracks. Although some cracks are natural and unavoidable, deep cracks that reach down to the concrete’s base can cause significant structural problems and lead to further damage. If you notice that your concrete driveway is developing deep cracks, it’s important to call a professional right away. Repairing the cracks quickly will keep the concrete from further deteriorating and can save you from having to replace your driveway in the future.

Aesthetics

The beauty of concrete is not just limited to its durability; the material also provides a canvas for endless design possibilities. Your driveway is a large part of your home’s curb appeal, so it should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Concrete offers a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns that will match the architectural style of your house, whether it’s a classic cottage or sleek modern dwelling.

The most common decorative finish for concrete driveways is an exposed aggregate, which utilizes various sizes of pebbles and stones in the concrete mix to create a unique and visually appealing texture. This finish can be dyed in any color, allowing you to complement the existing colors of your property and enhance its curb appeal. Exposed aggregate is slip-resistant, making it an ideal surface for your driveway.

Concrete pavers are another option for homeowners seeking to add visual interest to their driveways. Concrete pavers provide a more natural appearance than concrete slabs, and they can be installed in a variety of geometric patterns to suit the architectural style of your home. Using pavers in geometric designs is not only eye-catching, but it can also help with drainage and prevent the formation of cracks due to freeze-thaw cycles.

Decorative concrete can also be used to mimic the look of cobblestones or pavers. This allows homeowners to achieve the aesthetic of stone at a lower cost and with less maintenance.

Concrete can be dyed to any color, including black, which is a popular choice for homeowners seeking to achieve a sleek, modern look. It can also be stamped with patterns to imitate cobblestones or bricks, enabling you to personalize the look of your driveway to match the aesthetic of your home.

Adding borders or accents to your concrete driveway can enhance its curb appeal and make it easier for drivers to navigate. Borders define the edges of your driveway and distinguish it from the surrounding lawn, while accents such as herringbone or hexagon Roman slate can lend an enticing pattern to your concrete driveway.

Easy Maintenance

Concrete driveways are relatively easy to maintain and are a good investment. They withstand heavy loads very well and are also highly durable. However, just like any surface exposed to weather and the elements, concrete is susceptible to damage over time. It is possible to prevent much of this by taking a few simple steps with your maintenance routine.

Weeds can quickly take hold in a concrete drive, especially one that is neglected or not regularly cleaned. Pulling them out promptly is important to avoid a build-up that can put unnecessary stress on the concrete. In addition, weed killer can be sprayed on the concrete to keep them from growing back.

Another common issue with driveways is water seepage through the concrete. This happens when water gets into the cracks and freezes during cold temperatures, which can cause them to expand and lead to further damage. It is important to use a sealer on the concrete every two years to help prevent this from happening.

Cracks in a concrete driveway are also a common problem, but they can be repaired fairly easily with a special concrete repair product. Hairline cracks can often be filled in with a non-hardening, UV safe silicone, and larger ones can be repaired using a concrete repair mortar. In cold climates, it is also helpful to protect the concrete from freezing and thawing by covering it with a breathable tarp.

Once a year it is recommended to sweep and wash your concrete driveway to remove any dirt or debris that has collected over the course of the year. This will help keep the concrete looking new and is an important part of any maintenance program.

In addition to regular cleaning and resealing, other important things you can do are to avoid excessive parking in the same spot on the driveway, to clear snow gently rather than plow it, to only apply rock salt as a last resort, and to remove any spilled chemicals or oil as soon as they happen. Following these simple tips can help to ensure that your concrete driveway stays in great condition for many years and is a valuable asset to your home or business.

Value

A beautifully designed and aesthetically appealing driveway is a key component in elevating your home’s curb appeal and overall property value. It creates a welcoming first impression for guests and potential buyers while showing that your home has been well maintained over the years. This is especially true if your driveway matches the aesthetic of the surrounding neighborhood. Concrete driveways offer a high level of customization that allows you to design a look unique to your home, while also ensuring that the driveway is durable and long-lasting.

Concrete is a highly durable material that requires very little maintenance. It can withstand heavier vehicles and drains water much more effectively than asphalt. If your concrete driveway is well-maintained, it can last up to 30 years or more. This longevity can make a major difference in the value of your property, as it will help prospective buyers feel confident that they are investing in a quality home that won’t need immediate replacement.

In addition to its durability and low maintenance costs, a concrete driveway offers a smooth surface that reduces the risk of accidents for pedestrians and cars alike. Its slip-resistant qualities make it safer to walk on, and its smooth surface also provides better traction for vehicles when compared to gravel or asphalt.

A concrete driveway’s visual versatility and durability makes it a premium feature for many homebuyers. It can be designed to imitate the appearance of other paving materials, such as tile, brick and stone, but at a significantly cheaper cost and with a long-lasting service. This added value can make your property stand out from the competition, even if it might be initially more expensive to install than other alternatives.

A new concrete driveway can add significant value to your home, as it increases its curb appeal and sets a positive tone for the rest of the exterior. The increased functionality and longevity of concrete versus other materials also increase its resale value, allowing you to get a good return on your investment when the time comes to sell your house.

Who Killed Natalie Wood? Revisiting Hollywood’s Greatest Mystery

Julia Williams

After Natalie Wood’s mysterious death in 1981 off the coast of California’s Catalina Island, speculation and rumors ran wild. But within hours of finding her body, Los Angeles County officials side-stepped any notion of foul play by blaming her death on an accident.

Natalie Wood

More than 42 years later, a new documentary reopens the investigation. The film focuses on captain Dennis Davern, who alleges that Wagner and Wood fought before she fell overboard. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Who Killed Natalie Wood.

In a world that commodifies women and often takes them for granted, Natalie Wood rose above the dregs. She was a child star turned teen idol, an Academy Award nominee and a star of such hits as West Side Story and Rebel Without A Cause. She was a wife and mother twice over, and she made a name for herself as a respected actress. But her life ended in tragedy on November 29, 1981, when she was found dead of apparent drowning off the coast of California’s Catalina Island while yachting with husband Robert Wagner and actor Christopher Walken.

Wagner, the star of the television series Hart to Hart, was not initially considered a suspect in her death. He and Wood had married in 1957, divorced six years later and remarried in 1972. Wood left behind her daughter from her first marriage and a young daughter with Wagner. But he had his own problems. In a 2008 autobiography, he wrote that he blamed himself for her death.

But new evidence shows that he was at least a suspect in her death. He had been acting suspiciously towards Wood in the days leading up to her drowning, and he had been accused of badgering her and her costars while they were filming Brainstorm. He also got into a heated argument with Walken in a North Carolina hotel restaurant and hired spies to spy on them.

On the day of her death, Wood and Wagner had invited some friends to join them aboard their yacht Splendour. But most of them cancelled due to the predicted bad weather. That left only Wood, Walken and her skipper, Dennis Davern. It’s a story that would fit well with a script for NCIS or MONK.

For decades, Davern has maintained that the official account of what happened to Wood is a farce. He has spoken out on the subject numerous times, including on a 1992 Geraldo Rivera special and in a 2000 Vanity Fair article. He has also worked with author Marti Rulli on two books about the actress.

Christopher Walken

In life, Natalie Wood was one of Hollywood’s most alluring stars. In death, she remains its most mysterious. Her drowning on a yacht off the coast of Catalina Island is considered one of the most suspicious celebrity deaths in history. Despite a reopening of the case in 2011, investigators have been unable to determine what caused her to fall into the water. The cause of her death was listed as an accident on her official death certificate, but investigators have suspected foul play.

In the weeks leading up to her death, Natalie Wood and her Brainstorm co-star Robert Wagner invited several friends aboard their yacht for a weekend trip to Catalina Island. Most declined the invitation, but Walken accepted. He was in town for the film, but he was also an old friend of the couple.

According to reports at the time, Wood and Walken were having a great time together. They were partying and drinking until about 2am when they started arguing. The fight got so heated that it could be heard on other boats. However, hours passed before anyone on the boat called for help.

The next morning, the crew found the body of Wood floating in the ocean. She was clad in a flannel nightgown and red down jacket. Her body was so full of water that it weighed 40 pounds. Her lungs were filled with water, making it difficult for her to breathe.

Walken has long denied any involvement in Wood’s death. In 2022, he published a memoir, I Never Forget You, in which he wrote that he was “absolutely not” responsible for her death. He also claimed that he had no idea how she fell off the boat.

The book claims that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office manipulated an official report and has attempted to cover up evidence in Natalie Wood’s case. It also discusses attempts by Wagner, Walken and Davern to distance themselves from any blame with magazine interviews and books. It exposes eye-opening details regarding lead detective Duane Rasure’s actions in the investigation and suggests that there was a directive from Sheriff Pitchess to close the case as an accident.

Captain Dennis Davern

The person who is the focus of this latest investigation into Natalie Wood’s mysterious death is Dennis Davern, the captain of the yacht that she was on when she died. He claims that he has new information about the night she went into the water, and he is asking investigators to take a closer look at the case.

He has been speaking out for years, including on a 1992 Geraldo Rivera special and in a 1999 Vanity Fair article. He also worked with friend and author Marti Rulli to co-write a book on the incident called “Goodbye Natalie, Goodbye Splendor.” He is currently living part of the year in St. Augustine, Florida.

Davern was the boat captain who took Wood and her co-stars Robert Wagner and Christopher Walken out on a Thanksgiving dinner cruise in 1981. He claims that they were drinking heavily at the time, and that he heard them arguing. Later, she disappeared from the boat in a dinghy while wearing a nightgown. Her body was found in the water the next day. It was initially ruled an accident, but authorities have recently reopened the case after some inconsistencies were discovered.

According to Davern, there are many things that don’t add up. For example, he believes that Wagner dropped the dinghy to make it seem like it had been left ashore, but that R.J. had tipped it over instead. He also claims that he overheard Wagner tell Davern to keep quiet about the argument.

There have also been rumors of foul play in the case, but no evidence has been produced. However, the new information that Davern is offering could be a major factor in why investigators are re-examining the case.

He says that he has uncovered new information about what happened to Wood, including a fight between her and Wagner in a hotel room in North Carolina where they were shooting the movie Brainstorm. He also claims to have heard a conversation between the two stars about money and that he believes there is more to the story than what was originally reported.

Doctor Michael Franco

The 1981 drowning of Oscar-nominated actress Natalie Wood has long been one of Hollywood’s most controversial unsolved mysteries, but the case just got a whole new twist. The Los Angeles County sheriff’s department has officially named 87-year-old actor Robert Wagner a person of interest in the case. The news was first reported by Radar Online. In the book, Sam Perroni writes that he uncovered critical motive evidence in a probate file and in documents from North Carolina where Wood was filming her movie Brainstorm. Perroni says he found that Wagner and Wood got into a major fight in a hotel restaurant weeks before the boat trip.

Adding to that, Perroni claims that when investigators interviewed the three men on the yacht — captain Dennis Davern, actor Christopher Walken and Wagner himself — none of their stories rang true. He also points to bruises that were discovered on the body, some of which made it look like Wood was assaulted before she died. The sheriff’s office hasn’t commented on this new development, but the new evidence could lead to a whole new theory about what really happened to the star.

For years, it was widely believed that Wood jumped off the boat after an argument with her husband and simply drowned in the chilly water off of Catalina Island. But this new evidence changes the course of the investigation, and a Los Angeles sheriff’s department spokesman told The Record that authorities are hoping for tips that could lead to the “truth.”

A doctor named Michael Franco, who was a volunteer intern at the coroner’s office when Wood’s body was flown in from Catalina, is a possible new missing link. He told The Record that he is convinced that bruises that were observed on Wood’s body indicate that she was attacked before she died.

The sheriff’s department is also seeking information on the forensic pathologist who performed Wood’s autopsy, as well as an eyewitness that might have seen something. They are also looking into allegations that the man who took Wood’s purse on board the yacht was a suspect.

Gas Leak Repair – How to Identify the Signs of a Leak

Julia Williams

Gas leaks can be a serious health hazard. Not only can they cause expensive property damage, but they can also lead to dangerous fires. This is why regular inspections of your home and identifying the signs of a leak are essential. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Gas Leak Repair.

Gas Leak Repair

These include a foul sulfur or rotten-egg smell, hissing noises near pipes, and physical symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. A professional plumber will assess the situation and follow a systematic repair process.

The cost of gas line repair can vary widely based on the location of the leak and the type of pipe involved. Usually, it costs between $150 and $800 to repair a small section of gas pipe, but the price can be much higher for buried lines that need to be excavated. The main reason for this is the fact that buried lines are more expensive to repair than exposed ones. The cost of a new gas line installation also depends on the length of the line and whether it’s above ground or underground. It’s important to keep in mind that a professional plumber will likely need to inspect the gas line before any work can begin, and this will incur an additional fee.

Detecting a gas leak is critical because of the potential dangers. These include fires, explosions, and poisoning. If a gas leak isn’t repaired immediately, it could lead to asphyxiation, which occurs when the body can no longer absorb oxygen. It can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning, which is dangerous for infants and people with breathing problems. A leaking gas line can also cause damage to property and the environment.

One of the most common signs of a gas leak is a rotten egg smell. This is caused by sulfur additives that are added to the gas. If you notice this odor, shut off all your appliances and contact a professional. You should also evacuate your home and stay there until a professional has checked the gas line.

Leaks in the gas line can be caused by several factors, including pressure and movement. They can also occur as a result of tree roots, earthquakes, and other environmental factors. Fortunately, there are many ways to detect these leaks. One of the most common indicators is a hissing sound, which can indicate that there’s a problem with the gas line. Another sign is a sudden increase in your gas bill.

If you suspect that you have a gas leak, first turn off your gas at the meter outside. Then, shut off all the appliances in your house to prevent any more leaks. It’s also a good idea to keep a gas leak detector in your home, so you can monitor the air quality and spot any potential problems before they become dangerous.

Time

Over 73 million homes in the US use natural gas as an energy source, making it one of the most common household energy sources. It’s a clean, safe, and reliable energy resource, but it can also be dangerous if the gas line is leaky or damaged. There are many signs of a gas leak that can help you know when to call your local plumber for immediate service. These include foul sulfur or rotten egg smells, hissing sounds near the gas line, and physical symptoms such as fatigue, headache, nausea, or confusion. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to evacuate the area immediately and call your local plumber for service as soon as possible.

A professional plumber will quickly turn off the gas at your home and begin the search for the leaky line. They will then use specialized equipment to test the lines for pressure, and if necessary, will remove the pipe and replace it with a new one. During this process, they will take extra care to ensure that the new gas line is secure and that no further damage occurs to your property. Finally, they will reinstall the cover over the gas line and then test it again to make sure the line is completely leak-free.

The amount of time it takes to complete a gas leak repair depends on the size and complexity of the job. Larger repairs may take longer to perform because they require extensive excavation and pipe replacement. However, the results will be worth it in the long run as they will prevent a serious gas leak that could have potentially fatal consequences for your family and pets.

Gas companies are responsible for repairing leaks on their side of the meter, but homeowners are responsible for gas lines that extend from the meter to the house. It is therefore important to get gas leaks repaired as soon as possible to reduce the risk of fire and explosion.

The first thing to do when you suspect a gas leak is to leave the building as quickly as possible, and open all doors and windows for ventilation. Do not use any electrical appliances, or light a fire in the area, as these could be sources of ignition. Leaving the premises as quickly as possible will help to limit the impact of the fire or explosion and will give you a better chance of getting professionals to your location quickly.

Experience

It is important to find a plumber that has experience with gas leak repair and other plumbing services. A professional who is familiar with local codes and regulations will ensure that the work they do meets all requirements. They will also know how to handle the situation safely and minimize damage. They will be able to provide you with a detailed estimate for the repairs and offer a range of payment options.

If you suspect a gas leak, it is vital that you act quickly and call the emergency services. If the leak is serious, you should evacuate your home and leave all doors open for ventilation. You should also avoid any ignition sources, such as matches or lighters. In addition, you should turn off all appliances connected to the gas line. It is also a good idea to turn off the main shut-off valve at the meter outside.

In older homes, leaking gas lines are more likely to occur at fittings like old shut off valves, tees, unions, flexible supply lines, and regulators. These pipes are often buried underground and may not be protected from the elements, which can cause corrosion. Leaks can also be caused by tree roots or by a movement of the ground around the pipes.

A qualified technician will be able to identify a gas leak and fix it promptly. They will check the integrity of all gas lines and repair any cracks or holes. They will also test the pressure in the pipe and install covers where necessary.

Depending on the age of the house and the materials used in the pipelines, different types of pipes are used in gas lines. The lines might be made of copper, steel, or plastic. They can develop leaks if they are pinched or overstretched, or if they have been bent past their tolerances during installation or repair.

In most cases, a gas leak is easy to spot. You can smell the foul sulfur odor of natural gas, which has an additive that makes it easily detectable. Other signs of a leak include hissing noises or symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, headache, and confusion. It is best to contact a plumber for a gas leak repair right away.

Reputation

Gas leaks can pose serious safety concerns, especially if they are not detected and repaired quickly. These tiny leaks can allow carbon monoxide, a poisonous and colorless gas that is odorless, to enter your home or building. If left untreated, carbon monoxide can cause severe health problems and even death. Fortunately, you can prevent carbon monoxide from entering your home by getting regular gas leak detection and repair services.

Many people are unaware that they have a gas leak, but there are some clear signs to look out for. Typically, these signs include distinct odors and hissing sounds. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to evacuate the area immediately and call a professional for a gas leak inspection.

Some of the most common places for gas leaks are near the fireplace, hot water heater, and furnace in homes that use natural gas. However, leaks can also occur where pipes connect to appliances. These connections, including shut off valves, tees, unions, flexible supply lines, and regulators, can become loose or damaged over time.

If a gas leak is not fixed promptly, it can lead to expensive utility bills. In addition, it can increase the risk of fires and explosions. It is important to invest in gas leak detection and repair to avoid these costly consequences.

While the main priority of gas leak and detection repair is to ensure the safety of homeowners, there are also financial benefits. The cost of maintaining a safe and efficient gas system can significantly reduce energy costs, leading to significant savings over the long term. In addition, a small leak can lead to over-exposure to carbon monoxide, which can be just as dangerous as the more immediate risks of a gas leak.

There are a variety of tools that professionals use to find and fix leaks. Some of these tools are more advanced, such as electronic detectors, while others are more traditional, such as soap solution tests. Once a leak has been fixed, professionals may use additional tests to ensure that it is not recurrent. They may also recommend routine maintenance and other preventative measures.

Dry Eye Symptoms and Treatments

Julia Williams
Dry Eye

In some cases, untreated Dry Eye Baltimore, MD can lead to pain and permanent vision changes. Doctors evaluate symptoms and design a treatment plan to reduce inflammation, increase tear production, and improve home and work environments.

Self-care tips include adding walnuts and fish to your diet (to boost omega-3 fatty acids) and using a humidifier. They also may recommend prescription eye drops and ointments that lubricate and prevent tear evaporation.

Tears

When you blink, a tear film spreads over the eye to keep it healthy and clear. It includes an oily layer (meibum) that prevents tears from evaporating, and a watery middle layer that washes away debris and keeps the eyes hydrated. Dry eye is when the glands in and around your eyes don’t make enough of these tears or they evaporate too quickly, leading to symptoms like itchy or gritty eyes, redness, watery eyes and a feeling that there’s something stuck in your eye.

Several things can cause dry eye, including age-related changes, certain medications (especially antibiotics and antidepressants, heart medicines and diuretics), environmental irritants such as cigarette smoke and systemic diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome. In addition, prolonged use of computers and other digital devices can reduce natural tear production.

If you have a mild case of dry eye, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter artificial tears. Look for preservative-free drops that come in single-use vials. Also, ask your doctor if adding a humidifier to your room or avoiding irritants such as cigarette smoke can help.

More severe cases of dry eye may require a prescription medication called cyclosporine A or lifitegrast (Restasis or Xildra). These medicines reduce inflammation in your tear glands and increase tear production. They work best when you use them regularly, at least twice a day. You might experience some stinging or irritation when you start the medication, but these symptoms should go away over time.

If over-the-counter treatments don’t improve your symptoms, your doctor can perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine what’s causing them. Your doctor might use a test called the Schirmer tear test, which measures your tear production by placing a strip of paper under your lower eyelid and then counting how many tears it absorbs in five minutes. Your doctor can then prescribe treatment to help manage your symptoms and address the underlying cause of your dry eye. This may include recommending artificial tears, ointments or prescription eye drops. They might also advise you to change your lifestyle, such as taking more breaks from computer screens and limiting irritants in your environment or adding a humidifier to your home or office.

Eyelids

When you blink, your tears spread across the surface of your eye and help lubricate it, reduce your risk for eye infection and wash away dust or debris. Any excess tears flow into small drainage ducts in the inner corners of your eyes and drain into the back of your nose. Dry eye can occur when tear production and drainage are out of balance, as well as due to underlying conditions like contact dermatitis or styes (chalazia).

Whether it’s a new product you’ve slathered on your skin or allergens from perfume droplets, irritants in the air or even just the wind, your body may react negatively to some things and make it flaky around the eyes. “If you are experiencing itchiness or flaking of the skin around your eyes, that can be a sign that there is an underlying condition,” Dr. Libby explains. Some common causes of itchy or flaky eyelid skin include atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, styes and other conditions that can cause inflammation like psoriasis or eczema.

In addition to anatomical issues, age can also play a role in dry eye symptoms. “As you get older, the natural oils that keep your eyes lubricated decrease, which leaves parts of the eyeball exposed to evaporation,” says Dr. Glass. Moreover, the fats that naturally occur on the eyelid skin are also reduced with aging which can contribute to dryness and irritation.

The other major way your eyelids help lubricate your eyes is by producing some of the complex layers of the tear film, she says. “They produce a mixture of water, mucus, and oil that helps prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly,” she explains.

So if you’re suffering from these signs and symptoms, don’t hesitate to call your eye doctor. Your doctor will be able to diagnose the cause and provide treatment options to help you find relief from dry eye and restore your quality of life. Typically, your doctor will recommend an over-the-counter or prescription topical corticosteroid ointment that works to reduce inflammation, along with other soothing products and techniques for your skin.

Eyesight

Every time you blink, a thin layer of tears spreads across the surface of the cornea, nourishing it and smoothing its texture. But when you have dry eye, that natural process can’t happen as well and your vision suffers. Blurry or gritty eyes are common symptoms of this eye condition, and many patients report having to rub their eyes often to clear their vision.

A growing body of research supports the idea that dry eye negatively impacts not only comfort, but also day-to-day visual function and quality of life. For instance, several studies indicate that dry eye degrades functional visual acuity, meaning that when patients perform sustained visual tasks like reading or staring at digital devices for long periods of time, their ability to concentrate and maintain their clarity decreases.

This is due to a variety of factors, including reduced tear production and increased tear film evaporation. Some medical conditions, such as inflammatory eyelid disorders (blepharitis or rosacea) and certain medications (like antihistamines, NSAIDs, and birth control pills), can also worsen symptoms of dry eye.

Luckily, you can take steps to prevent dry eye symptoms by taking regular breaks from screens, drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier to add moisture to the air. If these home remedies aren’t effective, talk to your ophthalmologist about prescription eye drops to stimulate tear production or decrease inflammation.

When you go in for your dry eye exam, your ophthalmologist will check the thickness of your tear layer and the health of your cornea. They will also examine how you blink, which is an important indicator of your tears’ health.

Your ophthalmologist will likely recommend over-the-counter artificial tears or gels to treat your dry eye symptoms and may refer you for further evaluation if they suspect you have a more severe type of the disease. If you wear contact lenses, they’ll advise you on the best types for your specific type of dry eye.

If you have a serious case of dry eye, your doctor may recommend punctal plugs or other ocular implants to help regulate tear flow and increase the stability of the tear film. They may also recommend dietary changes or supplements to promote eye health, like omega-3 fatty acids.

Treatment

When you have dry eye, treatments include lubricating drops, gels or ointments, over-the-counter or prescription, to help relieve symptoms. You can also try other strategies to reduce symptoms such as using a warm compress on your eyes, washing your hands before touching your eyelids and adding omega-3 oils or fish oil supplements to your diet. Your doctor may recommend that you see an ophthalmologist (eye specialist). Before your appointment, make a list of all your symptoms and how long you’ve had them. Also, list any vitamins, supplements or medicines you take, both prescription and non-prescription.

Your ophthalmologist will examine your eyes and the areas around them, including the eyelids, to diagnose dry eye. They may use special dyes or other tests to check for the condition.

Treatments for dry eye usually focus on reducing inflammation and improving tear production or increasing tear thickness. The first step is to get rid of any infection, which can cause inflammation. Then your ophthalmologist will prescribe medications for the dryness.

A nasal spray called varenicline (Tyrvaya) increases basal tear production by stimulating the trigeminal nerve. It takes a month to start working, but can be effective in relieving dry eye symptoms. Your ophthalmologist might also recommend artificial tears that contain a fatty acid, such as cyclosporine. These are used twice daily in each nostril and can be effective in treating dry eye. Another option is lifitegrast (Xiidra), which is similar to cyclosporine but doesn’t require a prescription and works more quickly.

If your condition is severe, your ophthalmologist may recommend autologous serum drops, which are custom-made artificial tears made from part of your own blood. These can be effective, but they’re expensive and your insurance may not cover them.

Your ophthalmologist might also consider punctal occlusion, in which they close the duct that drains your tears from your lower eyelids (punctum). They’ll put a temporary plug into the punctum to see if it helps. If this is successful, they can insert a permanent plug. Your ophthalmologist might also advise you to avoid certain drugs that can cause dry eye, such as antihistamines, NSAIDs and blood pressure medications.