If you’ve experienced discomfort or irritation in your eyes during the colder months, you’re certainly not alone. Many people notice that their eyes feel dryer or more sensitive in cold weather.
But is the cold itself to blame? The relationship between cold weather and dry eyes is a little more complex; cold weather itself doesn’t directly cause dry eyes, but the associated factors like dry air, wind, and indoor heating can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
At Eye Care Center of Colorado Springs, we aim to explain what’s behind this cold-weather phenomenon and what you can do to keep your eyes comfortable all winter long.
How Does Cold Weather Affect Your Eyes?
While the cold temperatures play a role, other factors associated with winter weather are often the culprits behind dry eyes. Cold air is generally less humid, and this lack of moisture in the environment can affect your eyes’ ability to stay hydrated. During winter, we often spend more time indoors with heating systems running. Indoor heating can further reduce air moisture, compounding the effects on your eyes.
Exposure to wind and icy conditions can also accelerate tear evaporation. Your eyes rely on a consistent tear film to stay lubricated and protected. But cold, windy air can strip away those tears, leaving your eyes feeling gritty, irritated, and dry.
Other Winter Behaviors That Impact Dry Eyes
Beyond environmental factors like dry air and wind, certain habits or behaviors in winter might make dry eyes worse. For instance, people often spend more time looking at screens during the colder months. Whether it’s watching movies, working on your computer, or catching up on your favorite shows, extended screen time can lead to reduced blinking. Blinking spreads tears evenly across the surface of your eyes, so when you blink less, your eyes are less protected from evaporation.
Another factor is allergies. Some people experience indoor allergies during winter due to pet dander or dust mites. These allergies can cause eye irritation and dryness, especially if they lead you to rub your eyes frequently.
What Actually Causes Dry Eyes?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears isn’t sufficient to maintain proper hydration. This can result in a variety of symptoms, including:
- Dryness or grittiness
- Redness
- A burning sensation
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
Cold weather or winter conditions don’t directly cause dry eyes, but they can exacerbate existing symptoms if your tear production or quality is already compromised. For many people, the combination of dry air, wind, and increased indoor time during winter can make managing dry eyes more challenging.
Who Is Most Affected by Dry Eyes?
While anyone can experience dry eyes, certain groups are more vulnerable to these symptoms, especially in cold weather. These include:
- People over 50
- Women, particularly those experiencing hormonal changes due to pregnancy or menopause
- Contact lens wearers
- Individuals with medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders
- People taking certain medications, including antihistamines or blood pressure medications
If you fall into one of these categories, it’s especially important to take preventive measures to protect your eyes during winter.
Tips for Managing Dry Eyes in Cold Weather
The good news is, there are plenty of ways to reduce and manage dry eyes during the colder months. Here are some tips we recommend:
Increase Indoor Humidity
Using a humidifier in your home can replenish moisture in the air, which can help prevent your eyes from drying out. Try placing one in rooms where you spend the most time, like your bedroom or living room.
Protect Your Eyes from Wind
When heading outside, wear wraparound sunglasses or goggles to shield your eyes from windy conditions. This can significantly reduce tear evaporation.
Take Breaks from Screens
Follow the 20-20-20 rule to minimize strain on your eyes. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This encourages blinking and helps keep your eyes moisturized.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water isn’t just good for your body—it’s also essential for maintaining eye moisture. Aim for eight glasses of water a day to support overall hydration.
Use Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide immediate relief for dry eyes. Opt for preservative-free options to avoid irritation, especially if you plan to use them multiple times a day.
Visit an Optometrist
If your dry eye symptoms persist, schedule a visit with an optometrist at Eye Care Center of Colorado Springs. We’ll take the time to assess your specific needs and recommend tailored treatments, such as prescription eye drops, bipolar radiofrequency, thermal energy, intense pulsed light, or other advanced options.
When to See a Professional
While occasional dryness can be managed with at-home remedies, chronic or severe dry eye symptoms may require professional care. If your symptoms are interfering with your daily life or if you’re experiencing pain, persistent redness, or vision changes, it’s time to seek help.
At Eye Care Center of Colorado Springs, our experienced team is here to help alleviate your discomfort and restore your eye health. Dry eyes may be more common in winter, but they don’t have to keep you from enjoying the season.
Keep Your Eyes Comfortable Year-Round
Cold weather can certainly make dry eyes worse, but understanding the causes and taking proactive steps can help protect your eyes from irritation. Whether it’s adjusting your indoor environment, protecting your eyes from the elements, or visiting a professional, you can keep your eyes healthy and comfortable no matter the season.
At Eye Care Center of Colorado Springs, we’re committed to providing thorough, patient-centered care for all your eye health needs. If you’re struggling with dry eyes or have questions about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable team. Together, we’ll find the relief you need to enjoy clear, comfortable vision all year long.
