It is common to notice that your eyes are dryer in the cooler months. In fact, dry eyes are common in winter, due to changes in humidity levels, temperature, and other seasonal factors. While you may not be able to change the weather, you can get treatment for your dry eyes that can improve bothersome symptoms. Ahead, the team at Mack Eye Center details how to keep your eyes comfortable in winter.
Prescription Eye Drops
Your exact treatment plan for dry eyes depends on your specific circumstances, eye health, and the severity of your dry eye. For mild or temporary instances of dry eye, your Mack Eye Center doctor may prescribe eye drops. Artificial tears are an excellent solution for hydrating the eyes, especially in dry winter environments. It is important to use the eye drops exactly as prescribed for the best result.
Prescription Ointment
Specialized ointments can also effectively treat dry eyes in the winter. Ointments have a thicker consistency than eye drops and can provide soothing relief for burning, irritation, and general discomfort associated with dry eye. Ointments can be prescribed for daytime or nighttime use, and they are an ideal solution for helping your eyes feel refreshed.
Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL)
Often, dry eye is caused by a dysfunction in the meibomian glands, which are oil glands located on the edge of the eyelids near the lash line. The oil secreted from these glands coats the eyes and tear film, preventing tears from evaporating too quickly, which may leave your eyes dehydrated. When the meibomian glands are clogged or are otherwise prevented from functioning properly, they are responsible for many of the troubling symptoms of dry eye.
In these cases, eye drops and ointments may not be effective at providing the long-lasting relief patients desire. This is why the doctors at Mack Eye Center also offer intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) to patients suffering from persistent dry eye symptoms. This treatment is performed in-office and gives patients a nonsurgical option for addressing issues with the meibomian gland blockages. IPL works by directing intense light pulses at the eye to improve malfunctioning meibomian glands. After IPL treatment, patients can expect less reliance on eye drops and ointments and can experience greater eye comfort during the winter months.
Dry Eye Treatment in Hoffman Estates
If you are concerned that the dry, windy days ahead will affect or worsen your dry eye symptoms, it is time to seek treatment at Mack Eye Center. To schedule your consultation, call our office or use the online form to book now.
