Dry eye syndrome is a major problem during winter. The season’s cooler, drier air may cause your tears to evaporate more quickly than usual, which can cause this condition. In today’s post, your trusted eye doctor from Alderwood Optical and Canyon Park Vision Clinic explains everything you need to know about dry eyes.
What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome
Any irregularities with the quantity or quality of your tears can cause dry eye syndrome. This condition can lead to blurred vision as well as chronic discomfort in your eyes. Older people, especially postmenopausal women, are at a higher risk due to hormonal changes.
Smoking cigarettes increases your risk of developing dry eyes, as does using electronic devices like your laptop or tablet for an extended period of time. Cold temperatures and dry air can also contribute. Your expert optometrist explains that these factors may have cumulative and adverse effects on your tears.
How It Affects Your Eyes
Dry eye syndrome causes your eyes to feel sore, heavy and gritty. You may also experience a stinging or burning sensation. Your eyes may become watery as well. Increased light sensitivity and reduced tolerance to activities that require close-range vision are also common.
How to Manage the Condition
Staying hydrated is a must, which is why we recommend drinking at least eight glasses of water per day. Eating tuna, mackerel and other cold-water fish also helps increase your levels of omega-3 essential fatty acids, which help keep your eyes lubricated. You may apply a warm compress to your eyes as well; the heat and moisture help unclog blocked tear ducts, stimulating your tears to flow more freely.
In addition, our optical care management for dry eyes may include high potency omega-3 fish oil supplements, applying artificial tears. Just like natural ones, they contain water, mucus and oil to keep your eyes lubricated. Punctal plugs or prescription medication may be necessary for severe dry eye cases.
To learn about more ways to manage dry eyes, call us at (425) 771-8472 for Alderwood Optical or (425) 485-0430 for Canyon Park Vision Clinic. We serve Lynnwood, Bothell, Millcreek and surrounding areas in Washington.