Winter brings much more than chilly temperatures and short days. Many people notice that their eyes start to feel dry, gritty, or even sore as soon as the weather turns cold. If you often find yourself rubbing your eyes or reaching for eye drops when the heating is on, you’re not alone.
Winter dry eyes are a common yet often overlooked side effect of the colder months. Winter dry eyes are not debilitating like cataracts or glaucoma, but comes with its own set of challenges and can be irritating and can cause harmful effects in the longer run.
Here, Mr Manu Mathew, a consultant eye surgeon with over 30 years of experience, breaks down exactly why dry eyes in winter happen, what to watch out for, and, most importantly, practical steps you can take for relief.
Why Dry Eyes Are More Common in Winter
It’s no coincidence that complaints about dry, irritated eyes rise every winter. Several environmental factors are at play:
Cold, Dry Air
When temperatures drop, the air naturally holds less moisture. Lower humidity outside means that the tears protecting the surface of your eyes evaporate more quickly. This intensifies the feeling of dryness as soon as you step outside on a crisp day.
Indoor Heating
While radiators and central heating keep us warm, they suck moisture from the air indoors, making it even drier than the outdoor air. This lack of humidity quickly translates into less natural lubrication for your eyes.
Exposure to Wind
Cold gusts and blustery conditions can disrupt the thin layer of tears coating your eye (the tear film), triggering discomfort or even reflexive tearing.
Less Blinking Indoors
Winter is the perfect time to binge-watch TV, scroll through your phone, or read for long stretches. When concentrating, people tend to blink less, which allows tears to evaporate instead of renewing your eye’s natural moisture barrier. All these factors add up to make dry eyes in winter especially troublesome.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Dry eyes may feel a bit different for everyone, but some familiar signs include:
- A persistent gritty, stinging, or burning feeling
- Eyes that unexpectedly water (yes, watery eyes can actually signal dryness)
- Redness or swollen lids
- Blurred or fluctuating vision that improves with blinking
- Sensitivity to light
If you notice these symptoms cropping up or worsening when the heating is on or after spending time outside, winter dry eyes might be the culprit.
How to Relieve Winter Dry Eyes
Thankfully, a little knowledge and a few small changes can make a big difference. Here are several strategies approved by our very own Mr Mathew for dry eye relief during the winter months:
Increase Indoor Humidity
Central heating dries the air. Combat this by using a humidifier to add moisture back inside rooms where you spend the most time. Even a simple bowl of water placed on top of a radiator can help boost humidity.
Stay Hydrated
Your body needs water to produce tears and keep them at the right consistency. Drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even when you don’t feel especially thirsty.
Use Lubricating Eye Drops
Artificial tears help to supplement your natural moisture barrier. Look for preservative-free options, as these are gentle enough for regular use. Use drops as often as needed, especially before heading outdoors or settling in for a long work session.
Protect Your Eyes Outdoors
Cover your eyes from cold winds and harsh air. Wraparound sunglasses or special moisture chamber glasses are ideal if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Take Regular Breaks from Screens
Instead of letting your eyes dry out during hours on the computer, remember to look away and blink gently every 10 to 15 minutes. If you work at a desk or spend a lot of time on devices, try setting reminders for these micro-breaks.
Avoid Direct Airflow
Don’t sit or sleep with a heater, fan, or vent blowing straight at your face. Adjust your position or the device itself to prevent drying out your eyes.
When to See a Specialist
Most people find that self-care makes a significant difference. However, if your eyes remain persistently dry, red, gritty, or uncomfortable even after trying home remedies, it’s worth scheduling a visit to a reputed optometrist.
Mr Manu Mathew, with decades of expertise, can perform a tailored dry eye assessment. He pinpoints the specific cause behind your symptoms and can recommend targeted dry eye treatment. This might include medicated drops, advanced lubricants, punctal plugs, or even treatments for underlying eyelid or gland issues, such as meibomian gland therapy.
Getting a professional assessment not only brings relief but also helps rule out other eye conditions.
Conclusion
Dry eyes in winter are a common but rarely discussed problem. With the right approach, adding humidity, hydrating well, using eye drops, and protecting your eyes from extreme conditions, most people quickly find relief. Remember, you do not have to suffer through blurry, sore eyes all season.
If winter dry eyes are affecting your comfort or daily activities, book an appointment with Mr Manu Mathew for a personalised assessment and effective options for relief. Your eyes will thank you.
FAQs
Why do eyes feel dry in winter even when I’m indoors?
Both cold, dry outdoor air and indoor heating reduce humidity, which causes your tears to evaporate faster and leaves your eyes dry or irritated.
Can drinking more water help relieve winter dry eyes?
Yes, staying hydrated supports healthy tear production and can ease dry eye symptoms, especially during winter.
Are certain people more likely to get dry eyes in winter?
Yes, people who wear contact lenses, are over 50, work in heated environments, or spend long periods gazing at screens are more prone to dry eyes in winter.
What’s the best way to protect your eyes when going outdoors in winter?
Wear wraparound sunglasses and avoid facing directly into the wind to shield your eyes and prevent moisture loss.
How often should I use artificial tears in winter?
It varies per person but generally, preservative-free artificial tears are safe for frequent daily use. Always follow your specialist’s recommendations.
Can diet affect winter dry eyes?
Yes, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as oily fish, flaxseed, and leafy greens, support tear quality and overall eye health.
Should I turn off my heater to prevent dry eyes?
Not necessarily, but using a humidifier or placing water bowls near radiators can help maintain indoor moisture and reduce eye dryness.
Can makeup or skincare make winter dry eyes worse?
Yes, certain products can irritate the eyes or block oil glands, contributing to dryness, especially if not removed at night.
When do I need to see a specialist for winter dry eyes?
If you have persistent discomfort, redness, blurred vision, or your symptoms do not improve with home care, see a specialist like Mr Manu Mathew for a full assessment.
What professional treatments are available for winter dry eyes?
Depending on the underlying cause, treatments may include medicated eye drops, punctal plugs, specialised lubricants, or gland therapies, tailored by your eye care specialist.