The sharp, dry winds and cold air of winter can cause or worsen dry eye symptoms. So can indoor heating, which sucks moisture out of the air. While many of us can't completely avoid wintry weather, there are things we can do to minimize dry eyes, as well as a variety of treatment options available.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is caused by a lack of tears or poor quality tears, leading to irritation and discomfort in the eyes. Dry eye syndrome can be annoying and, left untreated, severe cases can damage the surface of the eye and even lead to vision loss. That's why it's so important to understand what causes DES and to treat it.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome can be caused by aging, certain medications and medical conditions, and excessive screen time (we blink less when staring at a digital screen). Other causes include vision correction surgery and smoking. Your environment can also be the culprit — indoor heating dries out the eyes, and cold air and dry winds can do the same. Dry eye symptoms often peak during the winter months.

Dry Eye Prevention and Treatment

Following a dry eye consultation, your eye doctor will recommend ways to treat the condition. Usually, artificial tears, over-the-counter eye drops, or prescription drops are the first line of defense. These may be combined with in-office dry eye treatments.

In addition, eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, using a humidifier, maintaining eyelid hygiene, and applying warm compresses to your eyes as directed by your eye doctor can help alleviate symptoms.

Get Dry Eye Relief at Dayton Optometric Center

Visit Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio today and get relief from dry eye syndrome. Call (937) 228-2020.