Vitamins A, B12, and D and omega-3 supplements may help relieve common dry eye symptoms. Home remedies, such as a warm compress or humidifier, may also help. Speak with a doctor before supplementing to avoid possible toxic effects.

If you have dry eye syndrome, you’re not alone. Over 16 million Americans experience dry eye.

Several ways to manage your symptoms are available, including taking supplements or vitamins.

Research on supplements for dry eyes is still evolving. Taking too much of some vitamins may cause negative side effects. You might already be getting enough of certain nutrients through your diet. Talk with your doctor before taking any supplements.

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for eye health. You need it to produce tears and lubricate your eyes, and a vitamin A deficiency may lead to eye issues, including dry eyes.

In a small 2019 study, participants with dry eyes took a daily oral vitamin A supplement for 3 days, each dose being 5,000 international units (IU). After 3 days, the participants reported an improvement in tear quality.

According to the researchers, vitamin A improves the smoothness of the tear film, the thin layer of fluid on the eye, and supports tear formation.

The results suggest that a daily dose of 5,000 IU may improve dry eye symptoms. More research is necessary to determine the recommended dose and whether the benefits are long-term.

Avoid taking more than 10,000 IU (3,000 micrograms [mcg]) of vitamin A to prevent toxicity. Since the nutrient is fat-soluble, it can build up in your body. Vitamin A toxicity can cause:

Vitamin D is another fat-soluble vitamin. Some supplements and foods also contain vitamin D.

Those deficient in vitamin D may be more prone to dry eye. Supplements may help by reducing inflammation on the eye’s surface:

  • A 2019 study found that vitamin D supplementation may improve the effects of lubricating eye drops.
  • A 2018 study found that oral vitamin D supplements may improve tear quality and dry eye symptoms.

There isn’t a recommended vitamin D dose for treating dry eyes. To prevent toxicity, avoid exceeding 4,000 IU (100 mcg) of vitamin D. Like vitamin A, vitamin D may accumulate in the body.

The best way to avoid toxicity before supplementing is to get your vitamin D levels tested.

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin. A vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with dry eye disease and eye pain.

A 2020 study of 76 people found that combining oral vitamin B12 supplements and artificial tears improved symptoms of dry eye syndrome.

According to the researchers, vitamin B12 may repair the corneal nerve layer, or the nerves on the eye’s outer surface. This may help reduce the burning associated with dry eye.

There isn’t a recommended vitamin B12 dosage for dry eye symptoms. How much you should take depends on your ability to absorb the vitamin.

Doses of 2.4 mcg are generally considered safe for adults, but an upper limit for vitamin B12 doesn’t exist. Talk with a doctor before taking vitamin B12 for dry eye.

Omega-3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid. It provides structure to cell membranes and reduces inflammation in the body.

A 2019 review suggests omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation, alleviating symptoms like irritation and pain.

Conflicting evidence exists, though. A 2018 study found that omega-3 fatty acid supplements didn’t improve dry eye symptoms. More research is necessary.

There isn’t an official recommended omega-3 dose for treating dry eyes. A 2023 study using EPA and DHA, two types of omega-3 fatty acids, suggests between 500 and 3,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily for dry eye.

You can also try other home remedies to alleviate your symptoms:

  • Try artificial tears: Artificial tears lubricate your eyes. You can find artificial tears over the counter at drugstores. Your doctor may also prescribe artificial tears, such as cyclosporine (Restasis) and lifitegrast (Xiidra).
  • Use a humidifier: Dry and warm air may worsen dry eye symptoms. A humidifier adds moisture.
  • Avoid blowing air: The wind, fans, and air conditioning may dry your eyes further. Protective eyeglasses can shield your eyes.
  • Avoid smoke: Try to stay away from smoke, including cigarette smoke.
  • Take breaks when using digital screens: Avoid looking at electronic screens for a long time. Blink often to lubricate your eyes, or try the 20-20-20 rule.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking a lot of fluids may support tear production.
  • Apply a warm compress: Placing a warm compress on your eyes might offer relief.
  • Massage your eyelids: Gently massaging your eyelids might reduce symptoms and help lubricate your eyes.

If home remedies don’t alleviate your symptoms, seek medical help. Talk with a doctor if you have:

A more serious underlying condition might cause these symptoms.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend punctal plugs or surgery. These treatments work by keeping tears in your eyes.

If you have mild dry eye symptoms, certain supplements might help. Vitamin A may increase tear production, while vitamin B12 might alleviate burning. Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acid supplements may reduce inflammation.

Talk with a doctor before taking supplements and vitamins for dry eye. High doses may be toxic. Your doctor can determine the best vitamin and dose for your symptoms.

If you have severe dry eye or sudden vision changes, talk with your doctor immediately.