Winter is the time of the year when most people suffer from dry eyes. While you can treat dry eyes at home, professional eye care may be required if it occurs frequently or causes severe eye pain or discomfort. If you are looking for an 'optometrist near me in Kansas City,' contact us at Littlefield Optometry, LLC. We can provide a thorough examination and recommend the right dry eye treatment for you. Here are some tips to avoid dry eyes during the winter.
Turn Down the Heat
Hot air is dry air, which can dry your eyes. Your heating system can dry the air and cause eye irritation. To prevent it, keep the thermostat as low as possible while remaining comfortable. You'll also need to avoid hot air blowing into your eyes. Be careful when using a hairdryer, and point your car vents downward, so they don't blow directly into your eyes.
Outdoor Eye Protection
Winter winds can wreak havoc on your eyes. The best way to prevent this is eyewear with wrap-around frames. This keeps the wind from blowing into your eyes and causing dryness.
Eye Drops and Ointments
Over-the-counter eye drops and ointments can relieve dry eye symptoms. The most commonly used over-the-counter treatment is artificial tears. These drops are designed to mimic your natural tears, which alleviate the discomfort caused by dry eyes. For dry eyes at night, you can use dry eye ointments. The ointment is thicker than eye drops and is applied to the lower lash line.
Humidifier
A humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can indirectly relieve the symptoms of dry eye. Humidifiers can also be beneficial for sinus issues resulting from dry air.
When You Should See an Eye Doctor for Dry Eyes
Occasional dry eye typically responds to home treatment and prevention. However, if you are still experiencing dry eye, you'll need to visit our eye doctor. We can prescribe more effective and personalized treatments for your dry eyes. We will also examine your eyes to diagnose any underlying conditions that can cause or worsen dry eyes.
Visit Us for Quality Eye Care from Our Optometrist in Kansas City, MO
If you are looking for 'dry eye treatment near me' in Kansas City, contact us at Littlefield Optometry, LLC. We are dedicated to providing our patients the care they need to maintain optimal vision and eye health throughout the year. Be prepared for the winter by protecting your eyes from drying out.