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Get Rid of Dry Eyes This Winter with Our Guide
Millions of Americans suffer from dry eyes. With this guide, we’ll help keep your eyes comfortable and protected during the colder months.
If you regularly struggle with itching and burning in your eyes, you may be dealing with dry eyes. While dry eye syndrome affects millions of Americans, you don’t have to have the chronic condition for your eyes to suffer from a lack of moisture.
Dry eyes can be especially irritating during the winter. Between colder conditions outdoors and dry heating systems indoors, it’s hard to keep your eyes comfortable and protected as the temperature drops. And for those who wear contacts, too, dry eyes can become a regular winter issue.
However, there are ways to keep your eyes happy and hydrated all winter long. Here are some fixes that might improve your dryness:
Switch It Up
While contact lenses are a popular alternative to glasses, they can exacerbate some of the irritation caused by dry eyes. If you find yourself suffering from itching or burning eyes, then, consider wearing your glasses for a bit if you have them. You don’t have to forego your contact lenses completely, but switching it up will give them a rest — and a chance to replenish their natural moisture.
Don’t Strain Your Eyes on Screens
During the winter, your eyes will already be dealing with colder temperatures outside and dry heat inside. This means it’s important to give them a chance to rest when you can.
If you have to look at screens for long stretches of time throughout the day — whether for work or for personal use — you should be taking breaks regularly. Eye care experts recommend blinking often and practicing the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, staring 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Take Vitamins
While some solutions can help you find quick relief to your dry eye, you also want to set yourself up to avoid irritation in the long term. By eating right and giving your body the nutrients you need to be healthy, you can give your eyes the support they need during the winter.
Some eye care experts recommend taking omega-3 fatty acids and fish oils. These compounds can help your eyes produce added moisture to make it through the colder months.
Use the Right Eye Drops
If you need fast relief, eye drops are a great option. However, not all eye drops are created equal. Make sure you use a product that suits your needs and your eyes. For instance, be on the lookout for preservative-free eye drops that will allow you to use them as many times as you need without irritation. If you’re unsure which brand to go for, reach out to your doctor for recommendations.
Consult an Eye Care Specialist
It’s a good idea to speak with an eye care specialist if you’ve been experiencing itching or burning eyes this winter. By getting the attention you need from a trained professional, you can better understand how colder temperatures are affecting your eyes and causing you irritation.
At the Kleiman Evangelista Eye Center of Texas, our team can work with you to craft eye care plans that suit your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for fast eye relief during the colder months or you’re curious about long-term procedures, consider scheduling an appointment today.
Turn To The Top Eye Doctors In Texas
Check out one of our locations below for the best eye care near you:
