What Can I Do to Ease My Uncomfortable Winter Eyes?

Your optical questions answered                                                                      by Joel C. Wolf - Licensed Optician and Owner of Village Opticians

     Our harsh NJ winters can be especially taxing on our eyes. Two of the complaints I hear most often are itchy, burning discomfort and blurred vision from “watery” eyes. First of all, let me take the time to explain what may be causing your discomfort.

    As we age, the chemistry make up of our tears change. Our tears become more “watery” and less lubricant. Because of this, blinking starts to become less effective at providing comfort and overcoming the elements of our environment.

     The most common issue I see patients struggling with over the winter months is a burning or itchy sensation or the feeling that “something is in” their eye. Dryness (the absence of sufficient moisture) could, very well, be creating these symptoms. The cause of dryness in your eyes throughout the colder months may be the lower humidity levels inside your home. Our homes and offices are much “dryer” environments when the windows are closed and the heat is on. Unfortunately, your eyes may be paying a price for the evenings spent warm and cozy in your living room or by fireside.

     But, don’t worry! There’s no need to give up our coziness or our warmth! Remedies exist that will hopefully provide you with all the relief you need to be both warm AND comfortable this winter.

 3 things you can do to ease winter dry eyes:

            You can moisten your eyes by drinking extra fluids and by using an air humidifier (hot or cold) during waking hours.

            You can also supplement your tear supply by using lubricating eye drops. Saline or tear gels help to boost the natural tear layer of the eye, keeping your natural tears from evaporating so quickly.

            Finally, you can simply blink more. When you’re using a computer, reading or concentrating on a similar task, you naturally don’t blink as often. This can increase the symptoms of winter dryness. Try to make a point of blinking more often while performing these types of tasks.

      Another complaint I hear of is watery eyes and the blurred vision it causes. This could be yet another symptom of eye dryness. My patients often find it very challenging to enjoy even a short walk outside on a winter afternoon. Spending time outside on a windy, cold winter day will most likely cause your eyes to become dry. Then they will, most likely, start overcompensating for the situation by watering A LOT!           

     But, fret not my friends! There will be no need to give up our morning walks with our furry little four legged friends or our afternoon strolls with our loved ones! I have a very simple solution to the challenges we face when attempting to enjoy a few minutes of winter weather (or just getting to the car or bus safely!).

           1 thing you can do to keep your eyes comfortable while outside:

You can, and should, wear eyeglasses when you are outside. Your sunglasses are not just for summertime! These same glasses can also protect your eyes from the drying effects of the wind. So, you can enjoy your favorite pair of sunglasses all year long. If you don’t like the idea of sporting your heavily tinted summertime lenses during these winter months, come see me. I can help you select a “winter tint” that will be sure to brighten up your blustery winter days! There are also eyeglass style options available that will provide you with more coverage than the standard style and shape you might currently be wearing. There are plenty of style options that can be very effective at protecting your eyes from the discomfort caused by wind.

 I hope I have provided you with some answers along with some comfort. I hope you all enjoy a wonderful Holiday Season with family and friends!