Winter is a challenging season for our bodies. And we tend to overlook the effect it has on our eye health. The cold air outside and the dry indoor heat can lead to several eye problems, including dry eyes and discomfort.

 This happens due to the fact that winter weather can decrease the moisture in our eyes, which favors the appearance of irritation. And this eye irritation can lead to a burning or itching sensation. 

So, if you look for remedies on how to prevent dry eyes in winter, read on to find out what optometrists advise. Let’s see how to keep up your eye health during the cold season.

Don’t rub your eyes

Optometrists advise that dry eyes can get even worse if you rub them. Indeed, this is the first thing you are tempted to do. Still, you should know that rubbing your eyes can increase your discomfort, and it can even lead to severe infections. Also, this can have a negative impact on the quality of your tears, which can promote painful abrasions.

Close your eyes and blink as often as possible

If you want to prevent dry eyes in winter, you should close your eyes for a couple of minutes several times per day. Closing your eyes and blinking can boost moisture, and it can prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. 

Don’t sit too close to a heating source

If it were to ask an optometrist about how to keep eyes healthy in the cold season, he would automatically answer the following. It is best to prevent heat blowing in your face, as this will dry out your eyes and impede tear production. So, it is best to avoid sitting in front of a fireplace or a heat vent. 

Use sunglasses

No matter the season we’re in, sunglasses are an excellent tool for protecting your eyes. And wearing sunglasses in winter can protect your eyes from harsh winds that could dry out your eyes. Optometrists advise that it is always best to protect your eyes with sunglasses as they prevent damage while shielding your eyes against dust, debris, UV damage, or dehydration.

Stay hydrated

In case you didn’t know already, proper hydration can help maintain moisture levels in your eyes. So, if you find yourself continually battling dry eyes, you should start by drinking plenty of water. It will keep both your body and vision healthy. 

The bottom line is that having dry eyes in winter is a typical outcome. Still, if you feel like there is something else going on, you can always opt for booking a visit with an optometrist. In this way, you will receive professional advice for your concerns. Dry eye is a common complaint, and it can be dealt with by following one or all the tips mentioned above.