Winter, with its chilly air and low humidity, often brings discomfort for many, especially those who suffer from dry eyes. This common condition occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to irritation, redness, and a gritty sensation.

Understanding the causes, treatments, and preventative measures can help alleviate symptoms and maintain eye health throughout the season.

Causes of Dry Eyes in Winter

  1. Low Humidity Levels: Winter air is naturally less humid, and indoor heating systems further dry the air, exacerbating tear evaporation. This lack of moisture can make the eyes feel parched.
  2. Cold Winds: Exposure to harsh, cold winds can strip the eyes of their natural moisture, leading to discomfort and irritation.
  3. Increased Screen Time: During colder months, people tend to spend more time indoors using digital devices. Prolonged screen time reduces blinking frequency, which is essential for spreading tears evenly across the eye surface.

Prevention Tips

  1. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to indoor air with a humidifier can help maintain eye hydration. Aim for a humidity level between 30-50%.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water ensures your body, including your eyes, stays adequately hydrated.
  3. Wear Protective Eyewear: Wraparound sunglasses or goggles shield the eyes from cold winds and prevent tear evaporation when outdoors.
  4. Take Screen Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain and promote blinking.
  5. Use Omega-3 Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, can improve the quality of the tear film, reducing dry eye symptoms.

When to See a doctor?

If dry eye symptoms persist despite at-home remedies, it’s essential to consult an eye specialist. Chronic dry eyes can lead to complications like corneal damage or infection if left untreated. A comprehensive eye exam can help determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Winter doesn’t have to be synonymous with discomfort for those who experience dry eyes. By understanding the factors contributing to this condition and implementing effective treatments and preventative strategies, you can protect your eyes and enjoy the season.

Simple steps like using a humidifier, staying hydrated, and wearing protective eyewear can make a significant difference in maintaining your eye health during the colder months.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are of the author and not of Health Dialogues. The Editorial/Content team of Health Dialogues has not contributed to the writing/editing/packaging of this article.
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Dr Ashwin Shetty
Dr Ashwin Shetty

Dr Ashwin Santosh Shetty is a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore. He has over 9 years of experience in the field of Ophthalmology. His main area of specialization is advanced cataract surgery and refractive surgery. His expertise is in the areas of complex cataract surgeries, especially post-refractive surgery cataracts, TORIC and multifocal IOL implants (refractive cataract surgery) customised to the patients’ lifestyle and visual needs, corneal and lens-based refractive surgeries for freedom from spectacles, corneal refractive surgeries like LASIK, Blade-Free LASIK and Surface Ablation. After completing his MBBS at Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Dr Ashwin completed his Post-graduation at Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Bangalore Medical College followed by Bangalore West Lions Eye Hospital. This was followed by a fellowship in Advanced Cataract and Refractive Surgery at Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore.