The plummeting temperatures of winter lead to drier air, which can cause dry eye syndrome. You may also be at a greater risk of UV-related eye conditions in the winter too, since UV rays can be reflected off of snow.
In today’s post, Opti-Care talks about our various dry eye treatments and other ways to care for your eyes in the winter.
Lead a Healthy Lifestyle
Dry eye syndrome is a major problem during the cold months. Staying hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water per day helps keep your eyes moisturized, reducing the risk of dry eyeas. Eating cold-water fish is also a good idea; they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help promote healthy tears.
Use Our Prescribed Medications
If you’re unable to consume fish, we may include omega-3 supplements in your eye care plan. Your eye doctor may also prescribe cyclosporine to reduce inflammation in your eyes. Applying artificial tears can improve your visual comfort too. For more severe cases, we may insert punctal plugs to temporarily block your tear ducts.
Consider Using a Humidifier
Running your heater in the winter makes your home drier, increasing your risk of developing dry eyes. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eyes, consider investing in a humidifier to counteract the drying effect of your heating system.
Wear Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses or UV-protective eyeglasses in the winter is just as important as in the summer. While the temperatures may be cooler, the sun emits the same force and amount of UV rays. UV rays can also be reflected off of the snow.
For more effective winter eye care tips, call us at (410) 600-3173. We serve Westminster, MD, and nearby communities.