Dry eye is a condition that has a severe impact on your vision and overall quality of life. Dry eye sets in when the eye fails to produce adequate tears required to lubricate the eye or a situation when the tears produced dry up fast.
With a dry eye syndrome, certain inhibitions will set in like not being able to use a computer or read for an extended period. If you have dry eyes, you will not feel very comfortable in an office setting. However, you can contact your optometrist for help.
Why Dry Eyes?
Tears that lubricate the eye comprise three components: the oily, watery, and mucous layers. All these must be combined appropriately to keep the eye moist. However, over the years, and due to certain factors such as aging, hormonal changes, surgery, environmental factors, and medication can cause dry eye.
Meanwhile, winter can cause dry eye or aggravate existing dry eye condition, that is why you should know how to prevent dry eyes in the winter.
Signs of Dry Eyes
The following are the symptoms of dry eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Eye redness
- Eye irritation
- Excessive tearing
- Stingy mucus
Ways to Prevent Dry Eyes in the Winter
1. Stay Hydrated
The first way to prevent dry eyes is to ensure that you have adequate fluid in your body by drinking enough water to keep you hydrated. You can infuse ginger and lemon into your water for a different taste.
2. Protect Your Eyes When You Go Out
During the winter, do not go out without the thoughts of protecting your eyes. Take along your sunglasses or visor. You can also purchase a brimmed hat to wear when you are outside.
3. Turn on Your Humidifier
Whenever you are at home or office, and it feels like the air is dry, turn on the humidifier to have some moisture in the air, and it will relieve your eyes.
4. Avoid Direct Breeze to your Eyes
Whether you go out or you are indoor, avoid direct blowing of air, wind, or breeze into your eyes. This will prevent the moisture in the eyes from drying off quickly.
5. Limit Caffeinated Drinks
Reduce your consumption of coffee and caffeinated beverages during the winter. Caffeine is diuretic, and it will cause a loss of water from the body, which will worsen the condition of your eyes.
Contact your optometrist if you notice any of the signs of dry eyes. You can also ask for advice or prescription if you feel that your eyes are dry.
Johnson