Dry Eyes in the Winter Months

The cold dry air that is common in the winter months can have adverse effects on the moisture in your eyes.  But what many people may not realize is that your eyes can become just as dry while trying to keep warm inside.  The heat produced in our homes is a very common cause of not only dry skin, but dry eyes as well.  By taking a few simple precautions — both inside and outside — you can ensure that dry and itchy eyes are avoided.  In most cases, dry eyes are caused by the quick evaporation of moisture from our tear ducts.  In dry weather, hot or cold, this can occur quickly and cause itching and dryness that is very uncomfortable.

Take Steps to Keep your Eyes Moist

• Artificial Tears – Using artificial tears as directed can help keep your eyes moist when your tear ducts may not be able to keep up with the dryness of the air.

• Sunglasses – Wearing sunglasses when out in the cold weather can shield them from direct contact with the cold dry air particularly when it is windy.

• Humidifiers – When indoors, use a humidifier to make the environment less dry.  Indoor heat can dry the air, making your natural moisture dry up faster than usual.

• Cut down on coffee – Qe already drink more warm liquids during the winter months in order to warm up, but coffee is a mild diuretic that can cause dryness in your eyes and skin.  Monitoring your coffee consumption may aid in keeping your eyes more moist.

By making sure that your eyes are moist at all times, you can experience less discomfort while both inside and outside during the winter.

Do you have more questions?

If you feel you’re experiencing Chronic Dry Eye, and would like more information on treatment, we encourage you to contact us today.  Dry eye is a common condition especially in the colder seasons, and we can work together to find the best treatment options for you.  Our offices are located in Winchester, serving Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland.  We can be reached at (540) 722-6200.  Call today to make an appointment.

Source: http://www.seeclear.com/blog/dry-eye-carerestasis/dry-eyes-in-the-winter-months

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