When temperatures dip and heaters crank up, many people notice their eyes start to feel scratchy, dry, or irritated. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience – it’s a real medical condition called dry eye syndrome, and it tends to hit harder during colder months. Between gusty winds, dry indoor air, and more time spent staring at screens, it’s no wonder our eyes start to struggle.
If you’re rubbing your eyes more than usual or finding yourself blinking just to see clearly, it might be time to take your symptoms seriously. Left untreated, dry eye can escalate from temporary discomfort to chronic inflammation or damage to the surface of the eye.
Fortunately, there are both lifestyle tweaks and medical treatments that can help bring your eyes back to baseline.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome (DES) happens when your eyes don’t make enough tears, or when the tears they do produce are low in quality. The result? A lack of lubrication that leaves your eyes feeling gritty, tired, and sensitive to light. Some people describe the sensation as if sand is stuck under their eyelids. Others might experience blurred vision that clears up after blinking a few times.
While some people experience dry eye year-round, winter weather is especially tough on tear production. The combination of chilly winds and indoor heat strips moisture from the eyes, aggravating symptoms. Add in extended screen time, which naturally reduces your blink rate, and you’ve got a perfect storm for ocular dryness.
How to Prevent and Treat Dry Eye in Cold Weather
If winter has your eyes feeling irritated, don’t wait for spring to roll around – there are several effective ways to manage your symptoms. The best place to start is with a professional dry eye evaluation. At Advanced Eyecare Associates, we’ll look at your tear production, tear film quality, and overall eye health to pinpoint the root of the problem.
Most patients begin with at-home care options, such as lubricating eye drops (also known as artificial tears), warm compresses, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements. These approaches can help improve tear quality and reduce inflammation. But if over-the-counter remedies aren’t doing the trick, our team may recommend in-office treatments designed to target blocked oil glands or chronic inflammation, depending on your specific case.
Lifestyle also plays a big role. Consider adding a humidifier to your home, especially in bedrooms and office spaces where dry air tends to build up. Taking regular breaks from screens – especially during long workdays – can also make a big difference. And don’t underestimate the power of eyelid hygiene: gentle cleansing can help keep the tear film stable and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.
Dry Eye Treatment in Moses Lake
If dry, itchy eyes are putting a damper on your winter plans, the team at Advanced Eyecare Associates is here to help. We offer personalized care plans for dry eye syndrome based on your symptoms, health history, and everyday habits. Whether you’re experiencing mild irritation or something more persistent, we can help you find real relief.
Ready to feel comfortable in your own eyes again? Reach out to our Moses Lake office and schedule a dry eye consultation today. With the right care, you don’t have to spend another winter struggling with burning, watery, or irritated eyes.
FAQ: Winter Dry Eye
Why are my eyes watering if I have dry eye?
- It sounds contradictory, but watery eyes are a common symptom of dry eye. When your eyes feel dry, they often overcompensate by producing excessive tears – unfortunately, these tears usually lack the oils needed to stay on the surface of the eye.
Can dry eye cause blurry vision?
- Yes, blurry or fluctuating vision is a common symptom of dry eye syndrome. Blinking may temporarily improve clarity, but the issue usually returns without proper treatment.
Does using a humidifier actually help dry eye?
- Yes! Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can help reduce tear evaporation – especially during winter when indoor heating is on full blast.
When should I see an optometrist for dry eye?
- If symptoms persist for more than a few days, interfere with your vision, or cause discomfort despite using over-the-counter drops, it’s time to see a professional
Please note: Our office is Closed for lunch Tuesday through Thursday from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.