With the colder months around the corner, you may notice an increase in dry eye symptoms. The combination of cooler temperatures, dry air, and indoor heating can play a significant role in dry eyes, leading to discomfort and irritation.
At Junction Optometrists in Toronto, our team offers tailored treatment plans and expert advice to keep your eyes comfortable throughout fall and winter.
Why Do Dry Eyes Get Worse in Fall and Winter?
Several factors can contribute to the worsening of dry eyes during the colder months, such as:
- Lower Humidity Levels: During colder months, the air tends to be drier indoors and outdoors. The lack of humidity levels can result in tears evaporating more quickly, leaving your eyes feeling dry and irritated.
- Indoor Heating: As temperatures drop, we rely more on indoor heating systems to stay warm. However, this reduces the moisture in the air, further contributing to dry eye symptoms.
- Windy Conditions: Fall and winter winds can accelerate tear evaporation, making it harder for your eyes to stay lubricated.
- Increased Screen Time: As the days get shorter, people tend to spend more time indoors behind screens. This can reduce the blink rate, which contributes to dry eyes.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes
If you’re experiencing dry eyes during the fall and winter, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Consistent dryness or irritation in your eyes, especially after spending time in dry or windy conditions
- The whites of your eyes may become red and inflamed due to lack of moisture
- A burning or stinging feeling in your eyes
- You may experience blurred vision at certain times, like after long periods of reading or screen use
- Many people wake up with dry eyes after sleeping due to the lack of moisture
Tips for Managing Dry Eyes During Seasonal Changes
Although you can’t control the weather, there are several steps you can take to manage dry eyes during the fall and winter:
- Use Artificial Tears Ointment: Applying artificial tears/ointment before bed can help keep your eyes lubricated throughout the night, reducing dryness after sleeping.
- Wear Protective Eyewear: Wear sunglasses or wraparound glasses to shield your eyes from the elements outdoors, especially on windy days.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential for maintaining overall hydration.
- Consider Dry Eyes Contacts: If you wear contact lenses and struggle with dry eyes, ask a dry eye doctor near you about dry eye contacts. These specialty lenses provide more moisture and comfort for those with dry eyes.
- Use Prescription Eye Drops: We may prescribe eye drops specifically formulated to treat chronic dry eye. These prescription eye drops can help increase tear production or reduce inflammation in the eyes.
- Avoid Direct Heat Sources: Try to avoid sitting directly in front of heaters, fireplaces, or vents that blow warm, dry air. If you can’t avoid these areas, consider using a humidifier nearby to add moisture to the air.
- Take Breaks from Screens: Follow the 20-20-20 rule by taking a 20-second break and looking at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes. This helps reduce eye strain and encourages more frequent blinking.
Visit a Dry Eye Clinic
Chronic dry eye can lead to more serious complications if left untreated. Getting a proper diagnosis and exploring additional treatment options if necessary is therefore important.
Our dry eye specialist near you may conduct the following tests:
- Tear Film Analysis: This evaluates the quantity and quality of your tears to determine how well your eyes are lubricated.
- Meibomian Gland Evaluation: The meibomian glands produce the oily layer of your tear film, which helps prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. Our experts will assess the function of these glands to ensure they are working properly.
- Ocular Surface Staining: This test uses special dyes to highlight any damage or irregularities on the surface of your eyes.
- Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT): This test measures how long it takes for your tears to start evaporating after you blink.
Request A Dry Eye Consultation in Toronto
If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms and need additional support, don’t hesitate to contact Junction Optometrists in Toronto for personalized care.