While you may think of winter as the wet time of year with all the rain and snow, the air is actually more dry in the colder months, which can cause your eyes to become irritated easily.
Our staff is here to help you find the best ways to hydrate your eyes this winter. While you are indoors you should prevent dryness by using a humidifier. Eye doctors recommend the use of humidifiers in rooms with forced air heaters, which can decrease moisture from the environment.
Additionally, make sure to take added precautions once you step outside into the cold air. You can further protect your eyes from the elements by putting on a hat with a brim and wearing sunglasses. The point is to keep the swirling winds away and stop evaporation of your eye's tear film.
If your symptoms become unbearable you may want to consider rewetting drops which may help treat the bothersome symptoms of dry eyes. Consult with your optometrist before you start using eye drops to ensure they are right for your condition.
Don't forget that if you wear contacts you need to be especially careful in the winter. If able, make use of rewetting drops often. Lenses are dependent on moisture and need to stay lubricated to retain their shape. If they loose moisture, the lenses can lose their form and stick to your eyes, which causes discomfort and blurriness. So let your contacts drink up... and make sure to keep them lubricated this winter. With a little awareness and planning, you can avoid the hazards of the cold, dry weather and keep your eyes safe and cozy throughout the season!