How to prevent dry eyes during winter

What causes dry eyes in winter?

There are a number of reasons why you might get dry eyes in the winter. These include weather changes, as well as lifestyle factors that can exacerbate dry eyes at any time of the year.

There are also other underlying medical conditions that can cause dry eyes. These conditions include vitamin A deficiency, Sjögren’s syndrome, meibomian gland dysfunction, and eye infections.

People over the age of 50, especially women, are particularly prone to dryness in their eyes, largely because of the hormone changes that occur during pregnancy, when using birth control medicine, or during the menopause.

What are the symptoms of dry eyes?

Dry eye treatment

Dry eye is generally considered to be a long-term condition. However, while it cannot be cured, it is possible to manage it effectively and reduce its symptoms.

Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, Ophthalmic and Oculoplastic Surgeon, says you can prevent dry eyes yourself at home in a number of ways.

"You can treat dry eyes by keeping them clean and taking regular breaks from computer screens," she explains. "Also, making sure you're not straining your eyes when using a computer is important. You can do this by making sure the screen is at eye level. If you wear contact lenses, it can help to take them out and wear glasses occasionally to give them a break. Getting plenty of sleep is essential too."

Dry eye drops and medicine

Hawkes says a pharmacist may be able to help by advising you on possible treatments for dry eyes, such as eye drops, gels, or anti-inflammatory medicines. Drops and gels can help with tear production and lower the chance of damage to your cornea.

In some cases of dry eyes, eye drops might be necessary for a short period of time. Drops are the common treatment for protecting your eyes from dryness since they increase the moisture in your eyes. Artificial tears might also work well for some people with dry eyes.

Your doctor might also change the medicine you are taking if it is causing your eyes to become dry.

Dry eyes and contact lenses

If you are a contact lens wearer, the type of lenses you are wearing could be the reason for your dry eyes. Therefore, an optician might suggest trying a different kind of lens that is softer, more moist, and allows your eyes to breathe better.

Surgery for dry eyes

On rare occasions, if your dry eyes don't go away by using other treatments, your doctor may recommend surgery. Such procedures can stimulate tear flow, or an eye care professional might clean your eyelid.

How to prevent dry eyes

Hawkes says it is possible to prevent dry eyes, as long as you keep your eyes clean and healthy.

When should you see a doctor for dry eyes?

Hawkes recommends contacting your doctor or a specialist if your issue with dry eyes persists and you've already tried home treatments for a few weeks. If you visit your doctor or an optician, they can offer a thorough eye examination.

You should also seek medical help if you notice acute pain or any change to the shape of your eyelids or your vision.

It is always best to get dry eyes treated early. Ignoring the issue allows it to escalate, and can mean the condition is more difficult to manage further down the line.