In winter, cold and windy conditions and indoor heating can worsen symptoms of dry eyes. People may experience burning, itching, or a feeling of having something in their eyes. People can use OTC or prescription eye drops and ointments to reduce the discomfort of dry eyes. Additionally, you can make sure to use a humidifier in your home and reduce the time spent in front of screens. You may seek medical advice if these measures do not provide enough relief.
What Causes Dry Eyes in Winter?
There are many possible causes of dry eyes, with some specific to the winter months. Cold weather, high winds, and indoor heating can all contribute to dry eyes. Common symptoms of this condition are itchy, sore, gritty, red, light-sensitive, blurry vision, and watery eyes. Other possible causes of dry eyes could be insufficient tear production, tears evaporating too quickly, and tears not effectively keeping the eyes moist.
How to Treat Dry Eyes in Winter
Doctors can recommend various treatments depending on the cause and severity of a person's dry eyes. The treatments can differ depending on whether the dry eyes are connected with allergies. Below are the different treatments for dry eyes.
- Eye Drops
A doctor may recommend over-the-counter eye drops to help relieve dry eyes. These eye drops are available without a prescription and come in various forms. They work by mimicking the effects of natural tears, which help to lubricate the eyes. People can try different eye drops to determine which works best for them, and there are also specific types for contact lens wearers and those who need to use the drops frequently.
- Eye Ointments
Eye ointments are an alternative to eye drops that can be bought with or without a prescription. They are thicker than eye drops and can cause blurry vision, so it is best to use them before bed at night.
- Tear Duct Plugs
An individual can use punctal plugs, small pieces of silicon, or gel, to stop tears from draining away too rapidly. This will help retain moisture in the eyes for a longer period.
- Warm Compress
A warm compress is a home remedy that can help reduce symptoms of dry eyes. To use it, one should wet a clean cloth with warm, not hot, water and place it over the eyes for about 10 minutes. This can help soothe the eyes and reduce discomfort.
- Surgery
In rare cases, a person's lower eyelids may be too loose, resulting in the tears draining too quickly. To fix this problem, a doctor may suggest surgery to tighten the eyelids or to close the tear ducts so the tears cannot escape.
Conclusion
Cold winter weather can cause dry eyes, but staying hydrated, wearing sunglasses, and increasing indoor humidity can help to prevent it. If symptoms persist, it is best to consult an eye care professional to find the best treatment plan. Taking the necessary steps to prevent dry eyes during the cold winter can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable winter season.
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