Patients regularly question how to avoid dry eyes when the weather grows colder. Humidity decreases in the fall and winter.
Eyes may become even more dry on windy days. The cool, sharp breeze hurts eyes that are already dry. Dry eyes develop when the eyes either do not produce enough tears or produce poor quality tears. Dry eyes are exacerbated by seasonal changes, such as dryer air.
Common dry eye symptoms include:
Redness of the eyes
The sensation that something is in your eyes
Light sensitivity has increased.
One or both eyes experience stinging, burning, itching, or scratching sensations.
Contact lenses get irritating.
While it may seem counter-intuitive, wet eyes or stringy mucus might be signs of dry eye.
Eye tiredness and blurry vision
Keep in mind that the following recommendations on how to avoid dry eyes are not a replacement for medical care; rather, they assist you in living an eye-healthy lifestyle. Following these tips may help many patients treat or prevent mild-to-moderate dry eye.
If you have severe, persistent dry eyes or experience intense pain, see an eye doctor. Dry eye can signify a major eye health problem in some situations, or it can lead to eye infections or injuries to the eye.
Dry eyes can be prevented with the following 17 eye-healthy tips
Consider using an indoor humidifier. Not only does the outside moisture drop, but also individuals increase their heating, making the air inside much drier than the air outside. A humidifier adds moisture to the air and may help with dry eyes.
When you're outside, wear sunglasses. Wear a hat with a brim, sunglasses, goggles, or a visor. Even in the winter, wind, UV radiation, and the elements aggravate dry eyes. Furthermore, damaging UV rays continue to promote premature eye aging during the wintertime.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you don't like cold water, try herbal tea or warm lemon or ginger flavoured water.
Arrange your furniture so that you are not seated in an area where your heating vents are directly in your face. Also, try not to sit too close to heaters or heating vents.
During the fall and winter seasons, people spend more time on their computers, televisions, and other electronic devices. People end up spending more money, studying, or enjoying indoor leisure activity as the school year begins and the summer weather fades. Give your eyes periodic pauses, as most individuals blink less when focusing on displays or device screens.
Consider wearing your glasses more frequently if you wear contact lenses, as contacts can aggravate dry eyes. Additionally, glasses act as a shield, protecting you from the wind or hot air from inside heating.
If you apply eye makeup, make sure you remove it before going to bed. Mascara and other eye cosmetics can block tear ducts and lead to dry eyes and eye irritation. Washing gently with warm water, a soft washcloth, and a mild cleanser like baby shampoo might help avoid this.
Use a moisturizing eye drop that is devoid of preservatives and phosphates and contains high grade Sodium Hyaluronate (sodium salt of Hyaluronic Acid). Consult your optometrist for advice on the best product for your needs and medical history. Artificial tears and an eye-healthy lifestyle help many people restore water to their eyes. (Check out HYLO®)
If you smoke, you should think about stopping. If you don't smoke, stay away from secondhand smoke, which dries and irritates your eyes (and lungs).
Coffee and other caffeinated beverages should be consumed in moderation. Caffeine is a diuretic, which can aggravate dry eyes. Caffeine can be found in over-the-counter pain relievers, chocolate, tea, and sodas. Limit your alcohol consumption for the same reasons.
When using a blow-dryer, avoid directing the hot air at your face or eyes. The same is true for any other fan or gadget that blasts hot air.
Consume omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods such as fish and walnuts. Consider taking omega-3 pills as well. These healthy fats also help keep your eyes moisturized and may minimize irritation.
Eat foods high in vitamins A, C, and E. These eye-friendly nutrients help the eyes in a variety of ways. Citrus fruits, carrots, avocados, and other fresh vegetables are good sources. Consider taking supplements to ensure you get sufficient amounts of these vitamins.
Remember to blink often. During periods of heightened focus or concentration, some people blink less than the ideal number. This typically occurs while using a computer, but it can also occur while reading, playing sports, working, or pursuing hobbies.
Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes as much as possible, since this irritates them and may lead to greater inflammation.
Warm eye compresses are beneficial to many patients who suffer from dry eyes. Simply use a different cloth and water for each eye to avoid transmitting infection from one to the other.
Dry eyes are a symptom of a variety of eye disorders, ranging from moderate to severe. Make an appointment with your eye care specialist for an annual screening and to discuss any symptoms you are experiencing.
You may be able to avoid or reduce dry eye problems by leading an eye-healthy lifestyle. A professional optometrist can provide treatment choices for patients with more severe dry eyes.
Because the best treatment depends on the cause of your dry eye, your eye doctor may need to perform a thorough eye exam if you haven't had one in a while.
Remember to carry your favourite HYLO® with you wherever you go!
Continue to enjoy your time outdoors with preservative-free, phosphate-free HYLO® lubricating eye drops.
Are you new to HYLO®? Follow the link below to learn more about it.
"I have been using the HYLO gel drops and have had great relief. I am just going to start on the Ocunox eye ointment for night time. Both were recommended by my Optometrist and my Dry Eye Specialist. I recently had an occasion to speak with their customer service and they went above and beyond to help me. I highly recommend their company and products!" – Glenda Gardiner
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. CandorVision disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
The information contained on this website does not establish, nor does it imply, a doctor-patient relationship. CandorVision does not offer this information for diagnostic purposes. A diagnosis must not be assumed based on the information provided.
References
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