Combat Winter Dry Eyes with These Simple Tips
Dry Eyes: Common Issue in Winter
Dry human eyes happen when tears are not adequately produced or when they evaporate too quickly. As a result, individuals experience issues like redness and a gritty sensation in their eyes.
This condition arises in winter because of factors like cold, dry air and indoor heating. These factors reduce moisture and exacerbate problems.
During the winter, moisture in the air causes tear instability, which leads to dry eyes for many individuals. Today, we will discuss the causes of winter dry eyes and how to manage them.
Causes of dry eyes in winter
1. Low Humidity
It is well-known that winter air contains minimal moisture, and indoor heating decreases humidity even more. This dry atmosphere leads to reduced tear production in the eyes, resulting in less lubrication.
2. Cold winds
Being exposed to cold, strong winds can lead to moisture being drawn from the eyes, particularly in highly polluted air. Without adequate protection, tear evaporation rises considerably.
3. More screen time indoors
In winter, people tend to stay indoors more and often use their phones. Looking at screens lessens the frequency of blinking, which stops tears from remaining on the eye's surface, leading to increased dryness.
4. Use of indoor heating system
While indoor heating, fireplaces, and space heaters provide warmth, they can lead to excessively dry air, which may heighten tear astigmatism and raise the risk of dry eyes.
5. Seasonal allergies
Winter allergies, like dust mites or mold in enclosed areas, can lead to eye irritation and dryness.
How To Treat Dry Eyes In Winter
1. Increase humidity indoors
Utilize a humidifier to maintain moisture levels in your home or office, which helps to mitigate the drying impact of the heating system. This approach keeps both the air and your eyes hydrated.
2. Use artificial tears
Lubricating eye drops provide instant relief from dry eyes. If you want to use them frequently, choose a preservative-free option, as some drops contain preservatives that can cause irritation in the eyes.
3. Protect your eyes outside
To shield your eyes from cold winds, wear wraparound sunglasses or goggles. This helps retain moisture in your tears and avoids direct exposure to drying elements.
4. Take a break from screens
Every 20 minutes, focus on an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This encourages blinking and helps maintain eye moisture.
5. Stay hydrated
To stay properly hydrated and support tear production, ensure you drink ample water. Incorporate foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, flaxseed, and walnuts into your diet to encourage healthy tears.