House Call Eye Care

December 15, 2011

Can the Winter Season Make My Eyes Feel Dry?

The low humidity and cold during the winter season can aggravate eyes making them feel dry, irritated, burning and scratchy like “sand paper”. Subsequently, a person may experience eye redness, blurred vision and increased tearing.

Other factors may contribute to dryness of the eyes: wind or the car fan blowing into the driver’s face, prolonged exposure to bright sunlight, air conditioning, allergy or cold medications, cigarette smoke, alcohol or caffeine consumption and contact lens wear. The condition of the eyelids can affect dryness. Dry eyes can be exacerbated by blepharitis (“crusting of the eyelashes”) or eyelid surgery. Severe dry eyes may be associated with medical conditions such as: sjogren’s syndrome, sarcoidosis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Measures can be taken to alleviate discomfort of dry eyes. Lubricating solutions are available in a variety of thickness to correspond with the severity of dryness. Lubricants used periodically throughout the day will help soothe eye irritation due to dryness. Contact lens wearers should apply Rewetting Drops designed specifically for contact lenses. Running a humidifier and staying well hydrated with the consumption of 8 cups of water daily are proactive steps to diminish dry eye symptoms. Increasing dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids and foods rich in vitamin A and C will also improve the quality of natural tears promoting eye comfort. Severe dry eyes may require more aggressive treatment with topical medications such as: Lacriserts or Restasis or minor procedures to close the tear duct.

The winter season is a challenge for dry eyes, however remedies are available to soothe eye discomfort.