Dry eye
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5 min read
Dry eye in winter: why it happens and what can help
Heated rooms, cold wind and long screen days all dry out your eyes. Simple steps that may help, and when to see us.
Dr. Luis Ortega, OD
Every January our dry eye appointments fill up. Seattle winters are damp outside, but indoor air is often very dry, and your eyes notice.
Why winter is harder on your eyes
Indoor heating lowers humidity, cold wind speeds up evaporation from the surface of your eye, and darker days usually mean more screen time and less blinking.
Things you can try at home
Run a humidifier where you sleep or work
Take regular screen breaks and blink fully
Use preservative-free artificial tears as directed on the label
Wear wraparound glasses outside on windy days
Drink water through the day
When to see an optometrist
If your eyes stay red, gritty or blurry, or artificial tears don’t help after a couple of weeks, book a dry eye evaluation ($120). We’ll look at your tear film and eyelids and explain your options.
Sudden eye pain, strong light sensitivity or vision loss needs same-day care. Call us during office hours, or call 911 or go to an emergency room after hours.
This article is general information, not medical advice for your eyes. Sudden vision loss, flashes of light, new floaters or a painful red eye need urgent care, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
Lumen Eye Studio · Ballard
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