Watery Eyes During Winter? 5 Ways to Fight Dry Eyes
Dry eyes are especially common in the winter months. The humidity drops and the air becomes cold and dry. When the air is outsides is cold and dry, the water in your eyes evaporates quicker, which makes your eyes feel dry and tight. Your body tries to compensate for the dryness by producing more tears.
Cold temperatures combined with indoor heating may cause the eye to dehydrate. Eye dehydration may lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, blurred vision, and a scratchy or burning sensation. For us at Pacific Eye Associates, our doctors want to remind you to hydrate your eyes during the holiday season. The weather has been colder than usual in San Francisco so it’s important to use eye drops to prevent your eyes from drying out.
Winter Dry Eyes
The frosty air and harsh weather conditions can reduce the natural moisture in your eyes. The reduction of natural moisture leads to irritations, like burning or itching sensations. Burning and itching sensations lead to eye rubbing which will, of course, irritate your eyes further.
Oddly enough, another symptom of dry eyes is excessive tearing. As your eyes try to compensate for the lack of tears, your eyes may start to make too many tears. Sometimes you may feel like there is a foreign object in your eye. If left untreated, dry eyes may lead to blurred vision as well.
Tips to Fight Dry Eyes
- Keep your eyes moist and apply artificial eye drops a few times a day.
- Use a humidifier to add some moisture back into the air, especially if you’re spending a lot of time indoors in heated environments.
- Keep your distance and situate yourself away from sources of heat. Sitting by the cozy fire may dry your eyes out, so keep your distance.
- Drink lots of fluids! Keeping your body hydrated will also help the moisture in your eyes.
- Don’t rub your eyes! Eye rubbing will only lead to irritation and infections
Make an Appointment
You may always make an appointment to see one of our ophthalmologists at any time. Dry eyes may cause significant discomfort during the winter and relief can improve your quality of life. Request an appointment directly on our website or call us at 415-923-3007.
