With winter weather comes harsh conditions that can dry and damage exposed skin. As temperatures drop, we use hand lotions and lip balms to counter the negative effects of cold air, biting winds and the dry conditions generated by increased use of central heating. In addition to protecting your skin this winter, don't neglect your eyes. Many doctors recommend keeping dry eyes moisturized with the use of a lubricating eye drop.
According to The Schepens Eye Research Institute, dry eye is a common condition that affects an estimated 10 million people in the United States. Symptoms such as scratchy, itchy, burning, sore or bloodshot eyes and excessive tearing are not only uncomfortable, they also can interfere with vision and damage eye tissue if left untreated. Dry eye can be caused by many factors, including a dry environment (such as a cold and windy climate, airplane cabin, office or dusty room), aging, wearing contact lenses, cigarette smoke and cold or allergy medicines and pain relievers.
"During the winter months my patients often complain of dry and irritated eyes as a result of long hours working at a computer in a heated room or from increased air travel and participation in outdoor snow sports," said Penny A. Asbell, MD, FACS, professor of ophthalmology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. "I often recommend that my patients use a lubricating eye drop like GenTeal artificial tears to help keep their eyes moisturized."
Lubricating eye drops, also called artificial tears, are available without a prescription in most major drug stores. Unlike eye drops that are designed to reduce redness, artificial tears are made specifically to lubricate the eyes and minimize the irritation caused by dryness, as well as protect against further irritation.
To reduce your risk for dry eye, avoid dry environments and eye irritants such as dust, pollen and tobacco smoke. Limit consumption of sodas, alcohol and coffee, which usually contain caffeine. Blink more frequently. Increase humidity at home and work. Remove contact lenses when traveling by air. Use lubricating eye drops, especially at bedtime.
For more information on dry eye, visit: www.novartisophthalmics.com. -NU |
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