Treating and Preventing Dry Eyes

The cold months can be harsh on the eyes, leaving them feeling dry and irritated. If you suffer from dry eyes in the winter season, don’t despair – there are some simple things you can do to protect your eyes and tackle the problem of chronic dryness.

Here are 8 tips for treating and preventing dry eyes.

1. Start with a visit to your eye doctor:

Before embarking on any treatments for your dry eyes, it’s important to make sure there isn’t an underlying medical cause such as allergies or infection. Your optometrist will be able to diagnose any conditions that may be causing persistent eye dryness so that you can treat them appropriately.

2. Use artificial tears:

Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops can help to keep your eyes moist and soothe irritation. Look for preservative-free brands, as these are less likely to cause further irritation or discomfort.

3. Wear glasses or shades outdoors:

Windy weather can worsen dry eye symptoms, so it’s important to protect your eyes from the elements with a pair of protective sunglasses or glasses when you go outdoors.

4. Steer clear of allergens:

Allergens from pollen, mold, smoke, dust, and pet dander can aggravate dryness symptoms even further – so try to stay away from areas where these are present.

5. Use a humidifier:

Humidifiers can help to maintain the moisture levels in your home, which can be especially beneficial during the dry winter months when indoor air tends to get very dry.

6. Avoid long periods of screen time:

Looking at screens for extended periods of time can cause eye strain, and this can worsen symptoms of dry eyes. Take regular breaks throughout the day if you have to work on a computer or laptop, and make sure that your screen is set up correctly so that it’s not too bright or glaring.

7. Be careful with contacts:

If you wear contact lenses, don’t forget that they need special care during winter. Make sure to clean them properly and replace them regularly as per your optometrist’s instructions.

8. Eat a healthy diet:

A balanced diet is important for eye health, so try to get plenty of omega-3 fatty acids from sources such as fish and nuts, as well as vitamin A from foods like carrots and sweet potatoes.

By following these tips, you can help to protect your eyes during the winter months and reduce the symptoms of dry eyes. If you’re still experiencing discomfort after trying some of these measures, make sure to check in with your eye doctor for further advice on managing chronic dryness in the long term. Schedule your check-up today!