Many people experience dry eyes with the onset of winter. The drop in temperature, combined with indoor heating and drier air, can lead to uncomfortable dry eyes. However, this winter you need not worry as we’ve got you covered. We spoke to our expert Dr Mohd Haseeb Beg, Consultant Ophthalmologist, MBBS, MS (Opthomologist), Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, who listed some effective and natural ways to prevent dry eyes during the winter.

Natural Ways To Prevent Dry Eyes In Winter

According to a study published in BMC Ophthalmology, there was a substantial correlation between the frequency of dry eye symptoms and the amount of time spent driving, reading, and being in windy conditions. 

Hydration Is The Key

“It is natural to drink less water in winter than in hotter months. However, you must refrain from doing so as it directly impacts the moisture levels in your eyes”, said Dr Beg. Make sure you drink at least eight glasses of water a day or opt for alternatives like herbal teas to increase your fluid intake.

Warm Compresses

If you are looking for instant relief, look no further than warm compresses. It is a cost-effective remedy with no hassle. This helps in opening up the oil glands in the eyelids, allowing for better lubrication of the eyes. 

Instructions

1. In a bowl of warm water, soak a clean cloth.
2. Let the cloth rest over your closed eyes for 5-10 minutes.

Use a Humidifier

We tend to use room heaters in cold weather, which also becomes a contributing factor to dry eyes. To counteract this, invest in a humidifier for your home. Dr Beg added, “They add moisture to the air and provide comfort to your eyes. You can place the humidifier in your bedroom or any other frequently used space to help prevent the discomfort of dry eyes during the winter months.”

Maintain a Nutrient-Rich Diet

“A balanced and nutrient-rich diet is essential for overall eye health. Therefore, add foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc and selenium. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining the health of your eyes and can contribute to preventing dry eyes. Carrots, sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, nuts, and leafy greens are excellent additions to a winter eye care diet”, highlighted Dr Beg.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids help in the production of tears and maintain the quality of tear film, thus reducing the risk of dry eyes. It is mainly found in fish oil and flaxseed oil. You can add foods like fatty fish, chia seeds, and walnuts to your diet to increase your intake.

Also Read: Dry Eye After LASIK Surgery? Expert Explains How To Manage The Condition

Don’t Rub Your Eyes

While it may seem tempting, however, make sure not to rub your eyes. This is because rubbing your eyes might exacerbate any illness you may have from debris or germs living in your hands. This could even lead to an eye infection.

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

Dr Beg emphasised, “Make sure you follow the 20-20-20 rule to give your eyes a chance to rest and rehydrate. It’s a simple yet effective way to prevent dry eyes, especially during extended screen time.” All you need to do is every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

Blink Frequently

One simple hack to prevent dry eyes is to blink more often, especially when engaged in activities like reading or watching TV. The simple act of blinking helps distribute tears across the surface of the eyes, providing natural lubrication.

[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for medical information. We advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any eye problems.]