Do your eyes burn, itch or turn red during the winter season? Chances are you might be suffering from dry eyes. Having chronically dry and irritated eyes can adversely affect your overall eye health. If left unattended, dry eyes can also lead to impaired vision. That is why we have put together a comprehensive guide to help you take care of your dry eyes during winters.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
You might think that drinking plenty of water is only helpful in the summer. But that is not the case! If your body is not properly hydrated, your eyes will not produce sufficient tears, which will subsequently lead to dry eyes. So it is important that you sip on juices and other fluids to keep your body and eyes adequately hydrated throughout the year.
Use Artificial Tears
Your eyes suffer from dryness when they cannot produce enough tears to keep themselves lubricated. Heating systems, especially car heaters, worsen your eye health due to the proximity of the blowing air to the eyes. Applying artificial tears will not only make your eyes feel comfortable, but will also protect the ocular surface from any further damage.
Install a Humidifier
Heaters in closed settings remove moisture from the air, causing the surrounding air to become dry. This dry air, in turn, sucks the moisture out of your eyes. Installing a humidifier will replenish the lost moisture in the air and protect your eyes from dryness.
Increase Your Omega-3 Intake
Eating food rich in omega-3 such as fish, nuts and seeds will help your eyes produce a sufficient amount of oils. These oils will protect your eyes against dryness, itching or any other eye-related discomfort.
Wear Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses will not only protect your eyes from unnecessary UV exposure, but will also help to keep out dirt particles often carried in the breeze. They will also shield your eyes from cold winter winds.
Visit Your Optometrist
If your symptoms persist for extended periods, you need to visit an eye doctor as soon as possible. Your optometrist will prescribe suitable medication after evaluating your eye condition and help in alleviating symptoms of chronic dry eye.
At Maine Optometry, we are committed to providing our patients with the best eye care. Our in-house team of optometrists will have your eyes properly checked and have them treated for long-lasting relief. Contact us with your questions or schedule an appointment by calling 207-729-8474 today!