Dry Eye Worsening During Winter
By Dan Denney, O.D. - Eye Center South
Chronic dry eye results from poor tear quality or too few tears. Left untreated, this condition can lead to eye damage and eye infections. Therefore, you should plan to visit an eye doctor for an evaluation if you experience symptoms of dry eye or need to use eye drops frequently. Symptoms of dry eye tend to occur more frequently as you age, so don’t put off treatment!


Symptoms Of Dry Eye
- Irritation.
- Excessive eye rubbing.
- Reddening of the eyes.
- Burning sensation in the eye.
- Excessive blinking.
- Stinging sensation.
- Foreign body sensation.
- Eye-watering.
Seasonal Allergies Or Dry Eye?
Typical symptoms of seasonal allergies are like those of chronic dry eye. If you experience dry or irritated eyes, especially during Winter, you should get an accurate diagnosis from an eye doctor.
Seasonal allergies and dry eye come with symptoms like grittiness, redness, itching and dryness.
Note that some over-the-counter medications used to treat allergies can cause dry eyes, so be sure to chat with your eye doctor for medication recommendations.
Seasonal Changes And Dry Eye
Climate and weather can have a huge impact on your eye health. If you suffer from dry eye disease, the changing seasons and weather can cause you to experience a roller coaster of relief and discomfort throughout the year. Seasonal allergens, wind, humidity, and temperatures can all affect dry eyes, causing your symptoms to worsen.
Dry Eye During The Fall Season
Some of the factors that can lead to the worsening of chronic dry eye in Winter include drier, colder air and allergens.
Also, certain outdoor activities during the Winter season may worsen your reaction to allergens. Thus, you need to stay indoors when you are experiencing unusually high eye irritation. If you must work outside, wear safety goggles to avoid getting irritants or allergens into your eyes. Leaves harbor mold and ragweed, which can also trigger eye allergies that can worsen chronic dry eye.
Takeaway
This fall and winter take the necessary steps to protect your eyes from the weather and avoid contact with allergens. Most importantly, you need to see your eye doctor if you fail to find relief from chronic dry eyes.
To learn more about dry eye disease or to schedule an appointment, call Vision Center South at (888) 660-2738 to schedule at one of our offices in Brewton, Enterprise, Dothan, and Wetumpka, Alabama, or Marianna, Florida.