Our eyes have a lot to contend with during the winter months. Cold air and indoor heating can reduce the natural moisture in our eyes, causing them to dry out quickly.
But with a few simple tips and small lifestyle changes, you can ease dry eyes this winter.
What is dry eye syndrome?
Our eyes need tears to stay healthy. Tears help keep the surface of the eye moist, wash away dirt, and reduce the risk of infection. When there is an imbalance in tear production or a reduction in tears being produced, the eyes become dry and uncomfortable — a common condition known as dry eye syndrome.
The effects are usually felt in both eyes and can include:
- A burning sensation
- Sticky discharge around the eye
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Red eyes
- Watery eyes
- Heavy, tired eyes
Who is prone to dry eyes?
Anyone can experience dry eye, though it is more common in women and people over the age of 50. People who wear contact lenses, spend long periods in front of a screen, or have conditions such as lupus, blepharitis, or Sjögren’s syndrome are more prone to it.
How to treat dry eyes?
The good news is that there are many things you can do to minimise dry eyes and keep them healthy this winter.
- Artificial tears are usually the first line of defence for relieving mild to moderate dry eye.
- Applying a warm compress to closed eyelids for a few minutes each day can help clear blocked oil glands.
- Drink plenty of water — a minimum of 8 to 10 glasses a day.
- Limit screen time — when using digital devices, take regular breaks and try to blink frequently (blinking spreads the important tear film evenly across the surface of the eye).
- Avoid sitting too close to heat sources such as fires or fan heaters, and use a humidifier at home to help slow the evaporation of your tears.
- Get enough sleep. Seven or eight hours will give your eyes the chance to rest and recharge.
- Avoid dusty, windy, and smoky environments, and if you spend a lot of time outdoors, try wearing glasses to protect your eyes from the elements.
- Switch up your glasses or daily-wear lenses: if your contact lenses are causing more irritation, give your eyes a break for a few days or switch to daily disposable contact lenses.
Making some lifestyle changes can help combat dry eyes and keep them healthy. But if you’re still feeling uncomfortable, speak to your optician, who can help you find a solution.
Depending on the type of dry eye you have, your optician may suggest supplements, stronger eye drops, or switching to more moisture-retaining contact lenses, such as silicone hydrogel.