Dry eyes can be a nuisance at any time of year but is this problem more common in winter? In this blog, we take a look at some of the common causes of dry eyes and find out if you’re more likely to suffer with dry eyes during the colder months.
Please note that if you’re experiencing dry eyes persistently, it’s important to see a healthcare professional.
Are dry eyes worse in winter?
While dry eyes can occur at any time of year, you may find that you suffer with this problem more often during winter. And if you have dry eyes at other times of the year, you might find that the problem is worse in the colder season. Indeed, there is some research to suggest that dry eye disease is linked to the seasons, with winter being the season when the condition is most prevalent.[1]
A variety of factors can contribute to this uncomfortable condition occurring more frequently during winter. Below we take a look at some of the most common culprits.
What causes dry eyes in winter?
Winter brings with it a perfect storm of issues that may cause or exacerbate dry eyes. Here are the top reasons why dry eyes can be more common at this time of year:
Dry air
Our eyes work best when the humidity levels are 45% or more.[2] Unfortunately, however, this is rarely the case in winter.
Cold air can’t hold as much moisture as warm air so when the temperature drops so does the humidity. This results in air that is drier and more uncomfortable for your eyes.
Unfortunately, being in a heated environment is not a solution. In fact, indoor heating is known to dry out the air too, which is bad news for your eyes.[1] Dry air causes moisture to evaporate from the surface of your eyes more quickly than humid air. Lack of humidity can also cause a decrease in tear production, resulting in eyes that may feel itchy, gritty or sore.
To prevent dry eyes at home, you might want to invest in a humidifier. These devices can restore moisture levels in the air, which can help to lubricate your eyes.[3] In addition, using specially formulated eye drops such as TheraTears® Dry or Tired Eye Drops, which contain hyaluronic acid to soothe and refresh dry eyes, can make it easier for you to get on with your day at this time of year. You should always read the product information leaflet before using eye drops.
Unpleasant weather
Let’s face it, winter isn’t the most pleasant time of year when it comes to the weather. Whether you’re walking to work or trying to enjoy an evening run, you’ll likely be faced with bitter winds at one stage or another during the cooler months.
When your eyes are exposed to wind, your tears can evaporate more quickly, leaving them sore, red and watery.[4]
If you’re struggling with your eyes in windy conditions, you could try wearing wraparound wind-protection sunglasses. These could help to prevent dry eyes when you’re out and about.[5]
Screen time
These days, it can be hard to escape ‘screen time’. Whether we’re working, learning or enjoying some leisure time, screens are often playing a part.
And when the winter hits, we may find ourselves turning to our screens more often – opting for a night in in front of the TV or gaming instead of a drink out with friends or a run in the park. Even if we decide to take our exercise indoors and hit the gym, you’ll likely find that you’re faced with a tempting screen. All this screen time can wreak havoc on your eyes, causing them to feel strained, sensitive and sore.
You’re more likely to experience dry eyes if you spend a long time looking at screens without a break. It’s thought that this is because we tend to blink less and have more incomplete blinks while looking at a digital screen.[6]
To prevent dry eyes caused by screens, you should always make sure your screen is just below eye level so you don’t have to strain your eyes. You should also take regular breaks away from your screen. You may find it helpful to follow the 20, 20, 20 rule – this means taking a break for at least 20 seconds every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.[7]
Winter may be a more difficult time of year when it comes to dry eyes but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer. By following tips such as the ones above, your eyes stand a better chance of being comfortable all year round.
Resources:
[1] Kumar, Naresh et al. “Seasonal Variation in Dry Eye.” Ophthalmology vol. 122,8 (2015): 1727-9. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2015.02.013. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4757523/
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dry-eyes/
[4] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/how-can-i-tell-whats-causing-my-dry-eye
[5] https://www.plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/display-pil/pil-dry-eyes-6824/
[6] Al-Mohtaseb, Zaina et al. “The Relationship Between Dry Eye Disease and Digital Screen Use.” Clinical ophthalmology (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 15 3811-3820. 10 Sep. 2021, doi:10.2147/OPTH.S321591. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8439964/
