Winter air, often dry and polluted, can take a toll on eye health, leading to common symptoms such as dryness, redness, and irritation. Dry eyes are especially prevalent in urban areas during colder months when air quality typically worsens. This condition occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tear film becomes disrupted. The tear film, which protects and lubricates the eye, has three essential layers: fatty oils, aqueous fluid, and mucus.
Eye drops

Each layer works together to keep the eye’s surface smooth and clear. However, during winter, tiny particles suspended in polluted air can adhere to this delicate film, increasing tear evaporation and leading to discomfort. Moreover, these pollutants can trigger allergic reactions, further exacerbating symptoms for individuals with sensitivities, such as those with allergic conjunctivitis.

Read this article to learn more about symptoms and preventive measures.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

  • Stinging, irritation, or scratchy sensation in eyes
  • Mucus in or around your eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Redness
  • Difficulty using contact lenses
  • Problem while driving at nighttime
  • Watery eyes
  • Blurred vision
  • Eye fatigue

Causes Of Dry Eyes

According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), various factors can contribute to dry eyes.

Certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure, allergies, and depression, may reduce tear production or quality.

 Health conditions like diabetes, lupus, and Sjögren's syndrome can also affect eye moisture, making dryness more likely.

Additionally, eye surgeries can sometimes impact tear production and tear film stability.

Spending long hours looking at screens can further strain the eyes, as it often leads to less frequent blinking, which is essential for keeping the eyes naturally lubricated.

Also Read: Ayurveda For Dry Eyes: Remarkable Herbs To Soothe Discomfort And Enhance Vision

Effective Preventive Measures for Dry Eyes

To safeguard your eyes and manage dry eye symptoms, consider the following preventive measures:

Use Protective Eyewear

Wearing sunglasses when outdoors can shield your eyes from smoke, dust, and particulate matter. Wraparound sunglasses are particularly effective as they prevent particles from entering the eyes from the sides.

Use Artificial Tears or Eye Drops

Lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) can help keep your eyes moist and provide relief from dryness.

Preservative-free eye drops are recommended for frequent use, as they are gentler on the eyes.

Also Read: Dry Eyes: Keep Artificial Tears Handy To Treat Irritation

Limit Outdoor Activities

Air quality tends to be worse during early mornings and late evenings due to lower wind dispersal. Avoid outdoor visits during these times if possible.

Maintain Indoor Air Quality

Using air purifiers at home can help reduce indoor pollution and maintain a cleaner environment for your eyes.

Avoid using incense sticks or candles indoors, as they release smoke and can further irritate dry eyes.

Apply Warm Compresses

Warm compresses can help relieve dry eyes by promoting oil secretion from the eyelid glands, which helps maintain a protective tear film.

Apply a warm, damp cloth over your closed eyes for a few minutes, once or twice daily, to ease discomfort.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and eyes hydrated.

Eat healthy

Consume a wholesome and balanced diet rich in eye-friendly nutrients and omega-3s like those in fish oil or flaxseed oil have associated to promote eye moisture and may fight dry eye symptoms.

Remove Lenses Before Sleeping

If your contact lenses are not meant for overnight use, never forget to remove them before going to bed. Also, removing them earlier can provide your eyes enough time to breathe.

Blink Frequently

The simplest way to avert dry eyes is by blinking often, this aids in keeping the eyes moist and can prevent dryness, particularly during extended periods of screen time.

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

If you spend a lot of time on screens, practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple step helps lessen eye strain and prevents dryness.

Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

Pollution can leave microscopic particles on your eyes and rubbing them can cause further irritation and even injury.

Use a Humidifier Indoors

Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can help alleviate dry eyes in low-humidity conditions.

Consult an Eye Doctor

If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice. Persistent dryness and irritation may require prescription eye drops or other treatments.

(This article is reviewed by Preeti Sharma, Wellness Expert)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

 References:

Modern approach to the treatment of dry eye, a complex multifactorial disease: a P.I.C.A.S.S.O. board review

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9582-9799Pasquale Aragona1, http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2617-0289Giuseppe Giannaccare2, Rita Mencucci3, Pierangela Rubino4, Emilia Cantera5, http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4982-1462Maurizio

https://bjo.bmj.com/content/105/4/446

Dry Eye Syndrome

Mark I. Golden; Jay J. Meyer; Marco Zeppieri; Bhupendra C. Patel.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470411/