Worried about Dry Eyes This Winter? Check Out These Tips!

The winter season may not transform the Texas landscape as much as it does other parts of the country, but it does have effects. Some of the wintertime changes in our neck of the woods are felt more than they're seen. This can create a challenge in knowing how to cope. From runny noses to chapped lips to dry eyes, the experiences of winter can be difficult to avoid. If you are starting to feel the effects of environmental cooling and drying, we suggest a few tips for maintaining eye comfort until the weather warms in the spring.

Tips for Preventing Dry Eyes This Winter

• Got sunglasses? Wear them! Luckily, this isn't a difficult strategy in our area. Sunglasses not only shield the eyes from bright sunlight but also from dry air and wind. For cloudy days, consider getting a pair of nonprescription eyeglasses to achieve the same effect. These might just become your favorite fashion accessory!
• Moisten from the outside. Dry eyes can come on fast and strong. When this happens, be prepared with lubricating eye drops. In many instances, a good over-the-counter eye drop can suffice. However, if you wear contact lenses or have an eye condition, talk to your eye doctor for recommendations before choosing just any product off the shelf.
• Hydrate from the inside. When the weather turns cooler, we may not be very good at staying hydrated. A cold glass of water may not sound very appealing when it's cold outside. However, hydration has a direct effect on the eyes. The tear film is made partly of water. When the body is dehydrated, there isn't sufficient water content from which the eyes can draw. Think outside the box to stay hydrated. Drink warm water with lemon and honey or decaffeinated herbal teas.
• Give a touch of warmth. If dry eye creates discomfort, we suggest placing a warm, moist washcloth over the eyes for a few minutes. This can soothe irritation and improve moisture in the eyes.
• Avoid screens. One of the factors that contribute to dry eyes is infrequent blinking. We tend to blink far less when staring at digital screens (or books) than we do when going about our day away from screens. To prevent dryness, give the technology a break. Sit with your eyes closed for a few minutes a day, and take a break from the computer every hour if studying or performing work.

Do you have questions about dry eyes? Call 713.473.5715 for assistance.