Why Are My Eyes Dry in the Winter?

Winter brings a range of discomforts, from biting cold to chapped skin, but one less commonly discussed issue is the impact it has on our eyes. Many individuals experience dry, irritated eyes during the colder months, a condition that can not only cause discomfort but also affect vision. Understanding why this happens and what you can do about it is crucial to maintaining good eye health throughout the winter season. At Kings Highway Vision Center of Brooklyn, NY, we are here to help you understand the causes of dry eyes in winter and provide solutions to relieve this uncomfortable condition.

What Causes Dry Eyes in the Winter?

1. Low Humidity Levels

One of the primary reasons for increased eye dryness during the winter months is the drop in humidity. Cold air holds less moisture than warm air, which leads to a drier environment both indoors and outdoors. When exposed to this drier air, the moisture in the eyes evaporates more quickly than normal, leading to the symptoms of dry eye syndrome.

2. Indoor Heating

As temperatures drop, people tend to spend more time indoors, relying on heating systems to stay warm. Unfortunately, most heating systems further reduce the humidity in the air, exacerbating the problem of dry eyes. Forced-air heating, in particular, can be a major culprit, as it blows hot, dry air directly into the living space, contributing to faster tear evaporation and eye irritation.

3. Increased Screen Time

In winter, people often spend more time indoors, which frequently results in increased screen time—whether it’s watching TV, working on computers, or browsing social media on mobile devices. Prolonged exposure to screens can exacerbate dry eyes because we tend to blink less when staring at a screen, reducing the distribution of tears across the surface of the eye.

4. Cold Winds

Venturing outdoors in the winter exposes your eyes to cold, windy conditions. Wind can quickly dry out the moisture on the surface of the eyes, particularly when no protective eyewear, such as sunglasses, is worn. This is especially problematic in environments with freezing temperatures, where the wind can be harsh and relentless.

5. Winter Allergies

While many people associate allergies with spring and fall, winter allergens, such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander, can still trigger allergic reactions, including dry, itchy eyes. Indoor allergens become more concentrated in winter, as people tend to keep windows closed and spend more time indoors. Allergic reactions often worsen dry eyes by inflaming the surface of the eyes and affecting tear production.

6. Aging and Dry Eye Syndrome

Age is another factor that contributes to dry eyes, and this issue becomes more noticeable during winter. As we age, tear production naturally decreases, which makes older individuals more susceptible to dry eyes. Additionally, conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma, which are more common in older populations, may exacerbate dry eye symptoms, especially when using medications to manage these eye conditions.

7. Wearing Contact Lenses

Contact lenses can become more uncomfortable in the winter due to decreased tear production and faster tear evaporation. Dry eyes can make it harder to wear contact lenses for extended periods, and the dry air indoors and out can make contacts feel less comfortable. For individuals with pre-existing dry eye issues, wearing contact lenses in the winter can exacerbate symptoms.

Symptoms of Winter Dry Eyes

Dry eyes in the winter can manifest in several ways, and it’s important to recognize these symptoms early to seek appropriate treatment. Some of the common symptoms include:

• Redness: Bloodshot eyes can be a result of dryness, irritation, or strain from environmental factors like cold winds or indoor heating.
• Itching: Persistent itching is often a sign of dry eyes and can lead to further irritation if rubbing the eyes becomes habitual.
• Burning or Stinging Sensation: Many people with dry eyes in the winter report a sensation of burning or stinging, which can be quite uncomfortable.
• Blurred Vision: Without proper tear film on the surface of the eyes, vision may become intermittently blurry.
• Watery Eyes: Surprisingly, one of the body’s responses to dry eyes is to produce excess tears, which can lead to watery eyes as a symptom of dryness.
• Eye Fatigue: Straining to focus with dry, irritated eyes can lead to general fatigue or discomfort around the eyes.

Preventing and Treating Dry Eyes in Winter

Fortunately, there are several strategies to prevent and manage dry eyes during the winter months. Here are some effective solutions you can implement:

1. Use a Humidifier

Since low humidity levels are one of the primary causes of dry eyes in winter, using a humidifier can help add moisture back into the air. Placing a humidifier in the rooms where you spend the most time, particularly your bedroom, can prevent your eyes from drying out while you sleep and during the day.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your body, including your eyes, well-hydrated. Dehydration can lead to reduced tear production, so it’s essential to stay hydrated even in the colder months, when the sensation of thirst may not be as strong.

3. Wear Protective Eyewear

When venturing outside, particularly on windy or cold days, consider wearing protective eyewear such as sunglasses or goggles. These act as a barrier, preventing the wind from stripping moisture from your eyes.

4. Take Breaks from Screens

If you’re spending more time on digital devices during the winter months, be sure to take regular breaks to give your eyes a rest. The 20-20-20 rule is a great way to reduce screen strain—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps refresh your eyes and prevents prolonged dryness.

5. Use Artificial Tears

Over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help alleviate dry eyes by keeping the surface of the eyes moist. Choose preservative-free drops, as they are gentler on the eyes for long-term use.

6. Avoid Direct Heat

Avoid sitting directly in front of heating vents or fireplaces, as the dry, hot air can worsen dry eye symptoms. If possible, adjust your heating system so that air doesn’t blow directly toward your face.

7. Adjust Contact Lens Wear

For individuals who wear contact lenses, consider reducing wear time during the winter or switching to daily disposable lenses. If your dry eyes are particularly uncomfortable, switching to glasses until symptoms improve may be beneficial.

8. Visit Your Optometrist

If your dry eye symptoms persist despite these measures, it may be time to visit your Brooklyn Optometrists at Kings Highway Vision Center. Optometrists can assess the severity of your dry eyes and recommend treatments such as prescription eye drops, punctal plugs, or other advanced therapies to relieve discomfort. Regular eye exams are crucial for individuals with dry eye syndrome, especially during winter, when symptoms tend to worsen.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Care

While many individuals manage dry eye symptoms with over-the-counter treatments, persistent or severe dry eye syndrome can be indicative of underlying health issues. Chronic dry eyes can damage the corneal surface and increase the risk of eye infections. In some cases, it may be associated with cataract development, glaucoma, or other ocular conditions that require professional intervention.

At Kings Highway Vision Center of Brooklyn, NY, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye syndrome. Our team of optometrists will provide you with a personalized treatment plan, which may include advanced diagnostic testing, prescription treatments, or lifestyle modifications to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall eye health.

Conclusion

Winter weather presents unique challenges for eye health, with dry eyes being a common complaint during the colder months. Understanding the factors that contribute to winter dry eye syndrome, such as low humidity, indoor heating, and increased screen time, is the first step in protecting your eyes. By implementing preventive measures and seeking professional care when necessary, you can maintain healthy, comfortable eyes throughout the winter season.

If you are experiencing persistent dry eyes or any other eye discomfort this winter, schedule an appointment with the experienced optometrists at Kings Highway Vision Center of Brooklyn, NY. Our team is here to ensure that your eyes remain healthy and protected all year long.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with our Brooklyn optometrists, please contact Kings Highway Vision Center today. Your vision and comfort are our priority, ensuring a brighter, headache-free tomorrow.  Contact Us Today to Schedule Your Appointment or Call Us at (718) 376-2020.