Dry Eye Tips for the Winter

You may notice your dry eye symptoms become more pronounced during the winter. This is because there is less moisture in the air, especially indoors if you use central heat. The dryness can aggravate dry eye symptoms. Your eyes could also become watery and red from catching a cold on top of having dry eye. Edward Bancroft, OD in Anchorage and Palmer Vision Clinic in Palmer, AK, are here to give you the following tips in reducing the irritating symptoms of dry eye during winter:

Humidifier

Try using a humidifier to add moisture to the air inside your home. You can set up a humidifier in your bedroom, living room, or other area where you spend a lot of time indoors. Reducing the heat to avoid drying out the atmosphere in your home also helps.

Warm Compress to Soothe Eyes

Place a warm, damp compress over your eyes when needed to soothe dry eye symptoms. A warm compress over your eyes in the morning could help unclog your tear ducts and stimulate tear production to minimize the dryness. It will help your eyes feel better as well as be a good start to the day.

Take Breaks from Digital Screens

Take frequent breaks from the computer screen if you work from home or spend a lot of time on digital devices. Too much screen time can worsen dry eye symptoms. Blink more when using your laptop or other digital devices as blinking helps create moisture in your eyes.

Wear Sunglasses Outside

Protect your eyes from the wind by wearing wrap-around sunglasses when you go outside. Cold breezes can dry out your eyes.

See Your Anchorage or Palmer, AK, Eye Doctor for Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye can be a truly frustrating experience in the winter, so be sure to contact Edward Bancroft, OD in Anchorage and Palmer Vision Clinic in Palmer, AK, for help managing dry eye symptoms. Schedule an appointment with our Anchorage office (907) 562-2020 or Palmer office (907) 745-4373 today.