9 Tips to Soothe Dry, Irritated Eyes This Winter

Winter's cold, dry air can aggravate dry eyes. Luckily, there are many ways to find relief.

Keep an Eye on Indoor Humidity
Research suggests maintaining indoor relative humidity around 40-50% can help prevent dry air and resulting dry eye discomfort. Consider using a room humidifier and be diligent about cleaning the tank regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

Blink More
Make an effort to blink frequently when staring at screens or focused on tasks. Complete, gentle blinking spreads the tear film over eyes.

Rinse Away Irritants  
Many find eye washes, like sterile saline solution, useful for rinsing away pollutants and irritants when outdoors.

Use OTC Eye Drops
Artificial tears provide moisture and lubrication. Ingredients like polyethylene glycol and oils aim to supplement insufficient tears. Some find drops with hypromellose or carboxymethylcellulose relieve irritation. Discuss options with an eye doctor. Exercise Caution with Vasoconstrictors some redness relievers constrict blood vessels. Use minimally and only as directed.

Consider Prescription Options
Those with severe dry eye may benefit from prescription anti-inflammatory drops that target root causes. An eye care professional can suggest options.

Keep an Eye on Contacts
Soft contacts absorb moisture while rigid gas permeables improve circulation for some. Discuss specialty scleral and hybrid contact lens potential with your eye doctor.  

Punctal Plugs
Blocking tear duct drainage with temporary or permanent plugs allows eyes to retain natural tears longer, relieving dryness between applications.  

The best defense is being proactive. Protect eyes from cold wind gusts, take regular breaks from screens, stay hydrated, and consult an eye doctor at the first signs of discomfort. With some preventative care, everyone can enjoy clear and comfortable vision this winter season.