Winter can lead to dry, itchy eyes.
It’s windy and dry outdoors, and heaters pumping inside don’t offer much relief. The result? Dehydrated, itchy eyes that can feel like they’re on fire, making it hard to enjoy the season’s sights.
Here are some ways to keep your eyes lubricated:
Wear Sunglasses: If you’re heading out for a walk, hike, run, or to rake leaves or shovel snow, put on your sunglasses. UV rays, particularly in winter, can reflect off the snow and make things very hard on your eyes. UV-protective lenses can help.
Lenses can also offer a shield from a windy winters day.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking fluids is one of the best things you can do to prevent dry eyes. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of liquids throughout the day, and consider boosting intake if you regularly find yourself in dry environments.
Use a Humidifier: Spending more time indoors can contribute to dry eyes. Warm air coming from a fire, furnace, or radiator can all dry your eyes out quick smart. You may notice it even more after waking.
Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can help reduce the likelihood of dry eyes. Running it at night, particularly in the bedroom, can help reduce the risk of waking up to dry irritated eyes.
Eat for Eye Health: Omega-3 fatty acids may help protect eyes from fluid drainage that can promote dry and inflamed eyes in the winter. These healthy fats, mainly found in fatty fish, might also help reduce the risk for macular damage and dry eyes.
Eating fruits and vegetables can also benefit the eyes. These foods are high in water and micronutrients like vitamin A that can promote eye health.
Get the most from the seasonal sights by keeping eyes well lubricated and pain-free. Try these tips to experience the season as you were meant to!
