Winter is a wonderful time for many Canadians. The ski slopes are finally open, kids are out making snowmen, and nothing beats ice skating on a lake while it’s snowing, finishing the day with a nice cup of hot chocolate to make it the perfect day.
There are a few downsides that come with the cold weather; the roads get icy, your lips get chapped, and your eyes become irritated and dry. The glands in your eyes produce less tears during winter months due cold temperatures outside and going into heated buildings to warm up. This contrast in temperatures can cause your eyes to feel itchy or stingy while giving you a burning sensation. This isn’t fun to deal with, especially when you are trying to focus on working or driving.
This winter, if you start to feel your eyes becoming drier every day, try some of these techniques to get the moisture you need back into your eyes.
Increase your Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Fluid-Rich Foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found in fish oil supplements, eggs and most meats. If you increase your daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids, they will help improve the quality of your eye glands to help produce more tears.
You can also help combatting dry eyes by increasing your intake of fluid-rich foods like soup, fruits and vegetables. These types of foods hydrate your body and can help aid the water development in your eyes.
Try a Humidifier
During winter months, the air in your home can get very dry which can further cause you to suffer from dry eyes. Using a humidifier in your house is a great way to keep the air at a healthy level which will allow your eyes to remain hydrated.
Use Eye Drops
Finding the proper eye drops and using them daily is also a great way of keeping your eyes hydrated during the winter season. Most eye drops can be purchased over the counter, but if you need more information on which will work best for you, visit your optometrist for a second opinion.
What to Avoid
There are a few things you should to do to avoid dehydrating your eyes. When heating up your car, aim your vents away from your face. The hot air from your heating system can cause your eyes to dry out faster. Try to aim your vents towards your feet and windows to avoid direct contact with your eyes.
If your eyes continue to be dry, try cutting out coffee, tea and soda. These drinks are a silent culprit in drying your eyes out. If you partake in these drinks throughout the day, they could be the main reason as to why your eyes remain dry, irritated and itchy.
If you are suffering from dry eyes and these tips aren’t helping, set up an appointment with your optometrist as dry eyes can sometimes lead to a more serious eye condition? Are you located in Toronto? Visit us at 12 Church Street, or call us at (416) 504-7532 to set up your appointment today!