What Can Cause Watery Eyes During the Winter?

As the fall season ends, many of our patients at inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa experience the discomfort of watery eyes in winter. This issue can often be more prevalent during these chilly months due to factors like cold wind, harsh weather conditions, and increased indoor heating. When your eyes are exposed to these conditions, they respond by producing more tears to keep themselves moisturized, resulting in watery eyes, Tuscaloosa, AL.

Unmasking what causes itchy, watery eyes

An often reported symptom, along with excessive tearing, is itchiness. But what causes itchy, watery eyes? The answer lies in your body's response to environmental conditions. During winter, the paradoxical issue of watery, dry eyes often perplexes people. Essentially, dry eye is a condition where the tear glands don't produce enough tears for adequate eye lubrication. Winter exacerbates this condition because the cold, dry outdoor air and indoor heating systems can lead to rapid tear evaporation, thereby increasing dryness. Further, we tend to spend more time indoors and in front of screens during winter, which reduces blink rate, accelerates tear evaporation, and intensifies dry eye symptoms.

In response to increased dryness and irritation, your eyes may overproduce watery, ineffective tears, leading to the experience of watery, dry eyes.

What are the best treatments for watery eyes?

When it comes to managing these symptoms, it's essential to understand what is the best treatment for watery eyes. While the treatment can vary based on the underlying cause, it often includes over-the-counter eye drops that help lubricate your eyes and relieve irritation. For more severe cases, prescription medications might be recommended. Additionally, protecting your eyes from cold wind and dry air by wearing sunglasses and staying hydrated can help alleviate symptoms.

Exploring the paradox of watery, dry eyes in winter

Despite their apparent contradiction, watery, dry eyes in winter affect hundreds of people every season. Your eyes may overproduce tears due to the dryness caused by the cold winter air, but those tears may evaporate quickly because of the same dry conditions, leaving your eyes feeling dry again. To combat this, keep your eyes shielded from the cold and harsh winds, and consider using a humidifier at home to increase indoor moisture levels.

Knowing your options for watery eyes treatment

In addition to the therapies mentioned above, other watery eye treatment options are available. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing screen time and improving your diet, can often help. Regular eye check-ups in Tuscaloosa, AL are also crucial for detecting any underlying conditions that may be causing your symptoms. At inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa, we provide personalized care plans to manage and treat your winter eye woes.

Take action today for healthier eyes this winter

Watery eyes don't have to ruin your winter. With a better understanding of what causes these symptoms and the various treatments available, you can take steps to mitigate this seasonal discomfort. At inVision Ophthalmology Tuscaloosa, we're committed to providing the best eye care possible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and let us help you navigate through the winter season with clear and comfortable vision in Tuscaloosa, AL.