Treating (and Preventing) Dry Eyes in Winter

Dry eyes are a common condition that many Americans deal with every day. Over the past few years, awareness has grown about the condition among people who may have it. According to Google Trends, dry eye syndrome searches doubled between December 2010 and July 2020.

Dry eyes can occur due to seasonal changes, which bring about environmental changes. It can also occur due to other causes like side effects of certain medications, symptoms of other diseases, or old age. One of the seasons that may cause dry eyes is winter because of environmental change.

How Do You Treat Dry Eyes in Winter?

Treating dry eyes in winter may involve combining several strategies to get lasting results.

• Humidifiers

During winter, most people turn up the heat in the house. This heat can lead to dry eyes developing. It may be difficult to stay in a house without heating in the winter, but you can remedy this by using a humidifier. Humidifiers restore the moisture lost to the heating system.

However, you must clean and maintain your humidifier for the best results. Humidifiers have moisture that attracts mold and bacteria.

• Artificial Tears

They’re among the most common methods of treating dry eyes. Artificial tears help restore natural lubrication in the eyes that may be lost due to dry eyes. You can get artificial tears from any pharmacy, but you may need to try a few brands before getting one that works for you.

They are especially important if you have dry eyes and wear contacts. It would be best to find a contact lens-friendly option if you wear your contacts throughout the day.

• Eye Ointments

You can purchase eye ointments to relieve dry eyes over the counter. They are thicker than artificial tears, and you apply the ointment to the inside of the lower lash line. It is best to apply it when going to bed. If you use it in the morning, it may cause blurry vision.

• Warm Compress

If your dry eye causes your eyes to turn red and irritated, you can relieve the symptoms by using a warm compress. Apply a warm cloth to your eyes for about ten minutes for the best results.

How Do You Prevent Dry Eyes in the Winter?

You can prevent dry eyes from occurring in the winter by adjusting a few things in your life. Here are some changes you can implement to reduce the chance of developing dry eyes.

• Blink Rate

Especially if you are using a computer or phone for long hours, ensure that you blink more often. By blinking, you ensure that you have tear film over your eyes.

• Avoid Hair Dryers

Using hair dryers increases the chance of developing dry eyes.

• Avoid Smoking

Smoke from cigarettes can irritate the eyes and cause dry eyes. One way to avoid dry eyes is to avoid smoking or hanging around people who smoke.

• Drink Water

Hydration is one of the best ways to keep dry eyes from developing. By drinking plenty of water, you can ensure you are hydrated enough to maintain your tear film.

For more on treating and preventing dry eyes in winter, visit Smart Eyecare at our office in West New York, New Jersey. Call (201) 854-3411​​​​​​​ to book an appointment today.