How to Keep Your Eyes Hydrated During Winter Months

You may have noticed that your eyes feel much drier in the winter. Studies show that eye dryness is most likely to occur during the spring and winter. Seasonal changes, such as high winds and low indoor humidity, can lead to eye discomfort.

Most people suffering from dry eye syndrome experience severe symptoms during the winter. You may not be able to change the weather, but you can keep your eyes hydrated during the winter months.

 

Dry Eye Symptoms 

The harsh winter air can leave the eyes feeling dry and uncomfortable. You may experience mild or severe symptoms, depending on your condition. Common dry-eye symptoms include:

• Stinging or burning sensation

• Red eyes or eye fatigue

• Itchy eyes

• A foreign body sensation

• Blurry vision

• Light sensitivity

• Contact lens discomfort

If you experience severe symptoms, contact your eye doctor for treatment.

 

Tips to Prevent Winter Dry Eyes 

You can do several things to keep your eyes hydrated and prevent eye dryness during the winter. They include the following:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your eyes moist and well-nourished. Water helps to prevent dehydration.

• Blink often. It helps to keep your eyes moist by spreading tears over the surface.

• Using artificial tears. The eye drops act as a substitute for natural tears.

• Clean your eyelids to prevent clogging of the meibomian glands.

• Use a warm, wet compress over the eyelids each night to soothe the eyes and unblock the oil glands.

• Use a humidifier indoors to keep your eyes from drying out. Dry heat can cause tears to evaporate much faster, worsening dry eye symptoms.

Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can aid in preventing eye dryness.

Treating Dry Eyes 

You can treat dry eyes through various methods during the winter. Combining treatments is the most effective way to see the best results and enjoy long-term relief. Artificial tears can help keep the eyes hydrated.

OTC eyedrops are readily available and can help soothe the eyes. Your doctor can also recommend prescription eye drops. You need to use eye drops several times throughout the day. Your optometrist can suggest the best treatment for your condition.

 

In-Office Treatments for Dry Eye 

Severe dry eye can be debilitating. Fortunately, several in-office treatments can help relieve the symptoms with long-lasting results. The treatments include steam goggles that produce steam to bring moisture to the eyes.

Others are professional eyelid scrubs, pulsed heat and eyelid massage therapy, and LED-based heat and massage treatments. Your optometrist may also recommend punctal plugs or intense pulsed light therapy (IPL).

 

Visit Your Optometrist

Occasional dry eye symptoms may not be too bothersome, and most people can use home remedies to find relief. However, if you are prone to severe dry eye during the winter, contact your optometrist.

The doctor will discuss various treatment options, such as prescription medications and in-office treatments. Several medical conditions can cause eye dryness. If you have an underlying health issue, talk to your doctor about treatment options to ensure healthy eyes. Wear sunglasses outdoors, even in the winter. They will help to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and harsh winter winds.

For more on how to keep your eyes hydrated during the winter months, visit Eye See Vision Center at our office in Crestwood, Missouri. Call (314) 788-6440 to schedule an appointment today.