Winter Weather = Dry Eyes
The winter weather in Boston can be especially harsh on your eyes. Low humidity levels in the air can lead to dryness, itching, burning and even the feeling of a foreign object in the eye. The most common complaint of dry itchy eyes is often caused by low humidity levels inside the home and work areas. By turning up the heat and keeping the windows closed, we create the perfect situation for contact lens wearers to experience discomfort. Over time, dryness can cause blurred vision and damage to the cornea.
Here are some tips to keep your eyes healthy!
- Moisten your eyes by drinking extra fluids.
- Use a humidifier in your home and office.
- Lubricate your eyes frequently by using preservative-free tears which can be found over the counter in any drug store.
- Blink frequently especially when using the computer.
- Wear sunglasses. They will protect your eyes from the reflection of the sun and also the drying effects of the wind. Contact the optical shop at New England Eye Center on the 11th floor to order eyewear with UV protection. Phone: 617-338-9595.
- Call The LASIK and Advanced Cataract Center and ask about vision correction alternatives for people who suffer from dry eye. Phone: 617-636-7800.
Dry eyes are not the only challenge from the winter weather in New England. Exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun’s reflection on ice and snow can damage the eye’s surface causing inflammation of the cornea. This inflammation, called Keratitis, can make the eye red, sore and sensitive to light. So if you are skiing, skating, shoveling or driving, remember to wear protective eyewear with UV protection. This applies to all ages. Even children are not immune to the damage which can be caused by UV light.
If you are experiencing dry eye and cannot find relief, contact our team at The LASIK and Cataract Center at 617-636-7800. It could be time to get rid of your contact lenses and consider vision correction alternatives such as PRK and The Visian ICL. We can also refer you to one of our dry eye specialists who can offer alternatives beyond eye drops. Don’t forget to visit our website page on dry eye at https://www.mylasikdoc.com/boston/dry-eye-treatment.htm.
