As the winter months settle in, many people experience a common yet often overlooked issue: dry eye. While dry eye can be a problem year-round, colder weather and indoor heating can make symptoms worse, leading to discomfort and irritation.
At Bling Eyewear in Cranston, we're committed to ensuring your eyes stay comfortable, healthy, and well-cared for, no matter the season. Here’s what you need to know about winter dry eye, including its causes and how you can manage it.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to keep them comfortably lubricated. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye, and when there’s an issue with the tear film, it can cause irritation, redness, and even blurry vision. Symptoms often include a gritty feeling, burning, and increased sensitivity to light.
Why Does Winter Make Dry Eye Worse?
The winter season can trigger or worsen dry eye symptoms for several reasons. Colder air contains less moisture, and this leads to a decrease in the amount of humidity around us. Additionally, indoor heating systems can dry out the air in our homes and workplaces. As a result, the moisture on the surface of the eye evaporates more quickly, leading to increased discomfort. For people who already suffer from dry eye, these conditions can make symptoms much worse.
How to Manage Winter Dry Eye
At Bling Eyewear, we understand how important it is to manage dry eye effectively. Here are some practical tips to help you protect your eyes this winter:
- Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can make a big difference. Using a humidifier in your home or office can help reduce the evaporation of tears and keep the air around you more comfortable.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is key to overall health, and it’s just as important for your eyes. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help maintain healthy tear production.
- Wear Protective Eyewear: If you’re going outside in the cold or windy weather, wearing protective eyewear like sunglasses or windproof glasses can help shield your eyes from drying winds and environmental elements.
- Consider Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help relieve dry eye symptoms. Consult with our doctors about the best options for you.
- See Your Optometrist: If you’re experiencing persistent dry eye symptoms, it’s important to consult with an optometrist. At Bling Eyewear, we offer comprehensive eye exams and specialized treatments for dry eye, including prescription medications and in-office procedures like LipiFlow® to stimulate tear production.
When to Seek Professional Help
While dry eye is often manageable with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter products, if you’re experiencing chronic discomfort or your symptoms aren’t improving, it’s time to visit our eye clinic. Prolonged dry eye can lead to more serious conditions like corneal damage, so don’t delay in seeking treatment. At Bling Eyewear, our experienced doctors are here to help you find the best solution for your unique needs.
Book an appointment today at our Cranston or East Providence locations and let us help you keep your eyes happy and healthy this winter.