In cold weather months, do you feel a stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes? These are symptoms of dry eye, which is a common condition during the winter. The use of heaters and the circulation of dry air in winter leads to a deficiency in the tear glands, especially in older adults. Learn more about the common symptoms to look out for and how to prevent and treat dry eyes this winter.* 

What are the symptoms of dry eye?

Dry eye symptoms present in a variety of ways, including: 

• Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eye
• Stringy mucus in or around your eye
• Light sensitivity
• Eye redness
• Sensation of having something in your eye
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Difficulty with nighttime driving
• Watery eyes (the body’s response to dry eye-related irritation)
• Blurred vision or eye fatigue

How can I treat dry eyes?

For most people, over-the-counter (OTC) lubricating eye drops work well. They provide an artificial protective covering for the eye. In more severe cases, a nighttime prescription eye drop may be prescribed by your doctor. 

What do I need to know about OTC eye drops?

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Eye drops for dry eyes should be used at least 15 minutes after glaucoma eye drops to ensure you are not washing out your glaucoma medicine.
• Eye drops with preservatives should be limited to no more than four drops a day per eye.
• Eye drops without preservatives are viewed as safe and can be used as often as needed. 

What else can I do to lessen or prevent symptoms?

In addition to using lubricating eye drops, you can make some small changes or upgrades around your home and in your daily life, which include:

• Use a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air in your house.
• Wear sunglasses with large frames to protect your eyes. Look for sunglasses labeled “100% protection against both UVA and UVB” or “100% protection against UV 400.”
• When doing outdoor activities, wear a hat to help deflect the sun’s rays.
• For activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating, wear goggles for an added level of protection from the wind and sun. 

*The Glaucoma Foundation. (2020, Feb. 3). Protect Your Eyes This Winter. https://glaucomafoundation.org/protect-your-eyes-this-winter/

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