Winter is upon us, and for many of us in Burnaby BC, the colder months bring not just chilly weather but a common, often overlooked problem, dry eyes. If you’re one of the many who feel like their eyes turn into sandpaper once the temperatures drop, you’re not alone!
Dry eyes in winter can be uncomfortable, irritating, and even impact your daily life. But don’t worry—there are simple steps you can take to manage it. In this post, we’ll explore how winter weather affects your eyes, what you can do to keep your eyes feeling refreshed, and how optometrist Burnaby BC services can help you find lasting relief.
Why Are Dry Eyes More Common in Winter?
Before diving into the solutions, it helps to understand why winter weather can lead to dry eyes in the first place. When the air becomes cold and dry, so do our eyes. Additionally, heating systems kick into high gear which reduces moisture in the air while we are spending more time indoors. Both of these factors can rob your eyes of the moisture they need to stay comfortable and healthy.
Common Symptoms of Winter Dry Eyes
Winter dry eye symptoms can vary from mild to severe, with many people experiencing:
- Redness and irritation
- Burning and stinging sensations
- A gritty or sandy feeling, like there’s something in your eye
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
If any of these sound familiar, you’re in the right place to find relief!
4 Practical Tips to Prevent & Relieve Winter Dry Eyes
You do not have to simply accept dry eyes. Here are some do-able actions you could follow to avoid winter dry eyes.
1. At Home, Use a Humidifier
Winter’s dryness strips the air of humidity; indoor heating can exacerbate problems. Using a humidifier at home will help you reintroduce moisture into the air, improving the environment for dry eye symptoms. Usually enough to make a significant difference is a small portable humidifier for your bedroom or living room.
Even the simple habit of avoiding direct airflow from heaters or car vents to your face helps to prevent dry eyes! Just this small adjustment will help to greatly lessen dry indoor air’s irritability.
2. Get Regular Screen Breaks
Many of us spend more time indoors hooked to our screens (who doesn’t love a movie marathon during the dark winter months). Increased screen time can cause “computer vision syndrome,” a disorder known for aggravating dry eyes regardless of the reason—work, leisure, or keeping in touch with friends.
Have 20/20 vision? Your optometrist will still likely recommend blue light-blocking glasses if you find your eyes routinely dry or strained from screens. They aren’t just for those of us who routinely wear prescription glasses or contact lenses. With countless affordable and stylish options, there is something for everyone. In addition, wear sunglasses to guard against wind and winter UV rays—both of which can aggravate your eyes.
Taking regular breaks, and gazing at something in the distance, helps your eyes remain calm and less prone to dryness.
3. Keep Hydrated & Use Warm Compresses
Particularly beneficial for those with winter dry eyes are warm compresses. Applying a heatable eye mask to your eyes for 5 to 10 minutes can help induce normal tear production. Another important thing is keeping hydrated; when you are correctly hydrated, your body can more effectively preserve moisture levels in your eyes. Though in the colder months you might not feel as thirsty, try to sip plenty of water all day.
4. Use Lubricating Eye Drops
Many find quick relief from winter dryness with over-the-counter lubricating eye drops. Since some products are more effective for long-term hydration, scheduling an eye test in Vancouver can help you choose the right drops. Avoid drops designed to reduce redness, as they may worsen dryness over time.
Tip from an award-winning optometrist Burnaby BC
Systane Eye Drops—Optometrist Burnaby BC 3-Point Review: Finding the right eye drops can make a huge difference and all our recommendations take into consideration your lifestyle, allergies, eye sensitivity, and conditions. Plus, all of our recommendations are selected independently and are not influenced by commissions.
When to See an Optometrist: Urgent Care Metrotown
If you’re using these suggestions and still uncomfortable to the point of wanting to see your family doctor or visit a walk in clinic Metrotown, book an appointment with an optometrist instead. Persistent dry eye can be an indication of underlying issues that require professional attention. Specialized treatments including medicated eye drops, tear duct plugs, or other in-office procedures are best accessible through an optometrist.
Among the indicators you should schedule a visit with an Optometrist over an urgent care Metrotown clinic:
- Redness that is not going away
- Constant pain even with drops in use
- Any unusual symptoms—such as vision changes or swelling
Ready to Find Winter Dry Eye Relief? Visit Our Burnaby Optometrist Today
Dry eyes shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the season! Contact us right now if you need an eye test in Vancouver or suffer with dry eyes! Our experts are here to assist you with either minor discomforts or more recurring problems. We can provide individualized treatment choices that actually make a difference and we are conveniently situated for urgent care in Metrotown.
Schedule your appointment now, or visit us at Metrotown to find the relief you need to keep your eyes comfortable and healthy over the winter!
