How beautiful it is that we get 4 amazing seasons. Each season brings with it fun and beauty, but many of us deal with seasonal allergies and dread the onslaught of the spring, summer, and fall blooms.
Oh how great winter is, with most of the causes of allergies buried under mounds of snow. Suddenly, from out of nowhere, like a ton of bricks, my eyes are scratchy and irritated, red and tearing. But how can this be, when there are few allergens around?
For many of us, winter is the worst time of year for our eyes. True, there isn’t much growing outdoors, but wintertime is the cause of many a dry eye. The cold dry air and wind outdoors and the dry heated air indoors combine for a one-two punch.
If this sounds like you, then remember a few simple tips for keeping the eyes comfortable this winter. Liberal use of artificial tears as needed will boost the level of moisture in the eyes, but consider a preservative-free version if using them more than 3-4 times per day. Warm compresses can improve production of lubricants from the oil glands in the eyelids and alleviate dry eye symptoms. There are also lid cleansing solution and wipes that can be used to keep the area around the eyes healthy and prevent blepharitis (chronic inflammation of the eyelid, resulting in inflamed, irritated, itchy, and reddened eyelids).
If unsure which drops or treatment would work best for you, consult with one of the doctors at Milwaukee Eye Care.
Stay Eye Healthy Friends!
Written by Bart W., Technician with Milwaukee Eye Care
