If you have eyes that are dry or irritated, it may be dry eye. Dry eye is a condition in which there isn't enough tear film on the front of the eyes, or there is a poor quality tear film. This can happen for several reasons, and there are a few things that you can do in the winter to treat this condition. If you think you have dry eye, visit one of our ten Epic Vision Eye Centers in both Kansas and Missouri, including our Smithville location.
Use a Humidifier
In the winter months, the cold air is drier. Because it doesn't hold enough moisture, the dry air can cause the tear film on your eyes to evaporate quickly. This leaves your eyes dry, and they can become irritated and inflamed. When you run a humidifier, it puts more water into the air. With more moisture in the air, your tear film will slow down its evaporation so that the eyes can be kept moist and comfortable. Each humidifier is rated for a specific number of square feet of space, so make sure you choose one that is sized well for your living space.
Use Eye Drops
The drier air of winter causes countless cases of dry eye. When your eyes are affected by dryness, you can use eye drops to add moisture to your eyes. It can be a good way to relieve your eye pain when you have dry eye. There are also medicated eye drops that an optometrist can prescribe for you. These act as artificial tears as well as treat the inflammation in your eyes.
Contact Epic Vision Eye Centers for Dry Eye Relief
If you suspect that you have dry eye, you should consider getting an eye exam for a proper diagnosis. Call one of our Epic Vision Eye Centers in Missouri and Kansas, including our center in Smithville to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor. Call our team today or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.