As the weather gets colder and the air gets drier, it’s not uncommon for people to experience dry eye. Dry eye is a condition that various factors can cause. You may experience itching, burning, redness or tearing symptoms if you suffer from dry eye.
You can do a few eye care routines to help prevent and manage dry eye in winter. This blog post will share tips on keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable all season long.
Causes of Dry Eye in Winter
There are a few different factors that can contribute to dry eye in winter. One of the most common is exposure to cold, windy weather. This can cause the tear ducts to produce fewer tears, leading to dryness and irritation.
Another factor that can contribute to dry eye is indoor heating. When we turn on the heat in our homes and offices, it can cause the air to become drier, which can lead to irritation and discomfort.
Finally, spending time in dry environments can also cause dry eye symptoms. This could include working at a computer all day or being in an airplane. If you find yourself in any of these situations, you must take breaks often and frequently blink to keep your eyes from getting too dry out.
How to Prevent Dry Eye
You can do a few things to help prevent dry eye in winter.
Stay Hydrated
One of the best things you can do is ensure you drink enough water. Staying hydrated will help keep your eyes lubricated and healthy.
Take Breaks
It’s also important to take breaks often if you’re spending time in a dry environment. This could include taking a break every 20 minutes if you’re working at a computer or getting up and stretching your legs if you’re on an airplane.
Get a Humidifier
Finally, it’s a good idea to use a humidifier in your home or office to help keep the air moist. This will help reduce the risk of dry eye symptoms.
How to Manage Dry Eye
If you’re already experiencing dry eye symptoms, there are a few things you can do to help manage them.
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Use artificial tears. These drops can help lubricate your eyes and reduce discomfort.
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It’s also important to avoid using any product that could irritate your eyes, such as makeup or contact lenses. If you do wear contacts, be sure to take them out at least once a day so that your eyes can breathe.
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Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Getting enough rest will help reduce stress and fatigue, which can aggravate dry eye symptoms.
Consult With Spectrum Eye Care in Charlotte, NC, if Symptoms Still Persist
Dry eye is a common condition that various factors, including exposure to cold, windy weather, indoor heating and dry environments, can cause. If you suffer from dry eye, there are a few things you can do yourself to help prevent and manage your symptoms.
If home remedies aren’t working, contact Spectrum Eye Care in Charlotte, NC, today. Our team of experienced eye doctors will be happy to help you find the best solution for your individual needs. In addition to eye care, we also offer designer eyeglasses. Contact us today at (704) 543-9000.