If your eyes feel gritty, itchy, or watery during the colder months, you’re not imagining it. Winter is a peak season for dry eye symptoms—especially in places like Colorado Springs, where the air is already dry year-round.
At Ridgeview Optometry, we see an increase in patients suffering from dry, irritated eyes each winter. Fortunately, there are both at-home remedies and professional treatments that can help.
Why Winter Makes Dry Eye Worse in Colorado Springs
Several seasonal and environmental factors contribute to dry eye symptoms in winter:
1. Low Humidity and Dry Climate
Colorado Springs has a naturally dry climate. During winter, humidity levels drop even further, causing your tears to evaporate more quickly. This leaves the surface of your eyes dry, inflamed, and uncomfortable.
2. Indoor Heating
Heating systems keep homes warm but also dry out indoor air. Prolonged exposure to heated environments can dehydrate your tear film, making it harder for your eyes to stay lubricated.
3. Cold Winds
Even short bursts of cold wind can dry out your eyes quickly. Outdoor exposure without proper eye protection increases tear evaporation and irritation.
4. Increased Screen Time
Shorter daylight hours and more time indoors can mean longer periods spent on digital devices. Reduced blinking during screen use leads to poor tear distribution and worsens dryness.
5. Indoor Allergens
Dust mites and pet dander can trigger allergic reactions, causing additional dryness, redness, and irritation in your eyes.
Common Winter Dry Eye Symptoms
If you experience any of the following, you may be dealing with seasonal dry eye:
- Burning or stinging
- Scratchy or gritty sensation
- Red or watery eyes
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Light sensitivity
- Excessive tearing (a response to dryness)
- Eye fatigue or discomfort wearing contact lenses
- Crusting around the lashes
At-Home Tips for Relieving Dry Eyes This Winter
Mild symptoms can often be improved with simple lifestyle changes:
- Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to indoor air—especially in bedrooms and workspaces—helps reduce eye dryness.
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps refresh your eyes and encourages blinking.
- Wear Protective Eyewear Outdoors: Wraparound sunglasses shield your eyes from wind and cold air when outside.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water supports tear production and overall eye health.
- Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide short-term relief between appointments.
If your symptoms persist despite these efforts, it's time to seek expert care.
How Ridgeview Optometry Treats Winter Dry Eye
Ridgeview Optometry offers comprehensive dry eye care designed to relieve symptoms and address the root cause of your discomfort. Our approach includes:
- ✔ Advanced Dry Eye Evaluations
- ✔ Customized Treatment Plans
- ✔ Modern Treatment Options
We assess tear quality, eyelid health, and other contributing factors to identify what’s behind your symptoms. Whether your dry eye stems from weather conditions, inflammation, blocked oil glands, or allergies, we tailor treatment to your needs.
We use proven techniques and therapies to help restore tear balance and protect your long-term eye health. Many patients experience relief within weeks.
Why Timely Treatment Matters
Leaving dry eye untreated can lead to chronic discomfort, inflammation, and even damage to the eye’s surface. Early intervention helps maintain clear, comfortable vision—no matter the season.
At Ridgeview Optometry, our mission is to provide personalized, expert care that improves your quality of life. We’re here to help you protect your eye health during the harsh winter months and beyond.
Schedule Your Dry Eye Consultation Today
If you’re searching for a trusted optometrist near me or need the best dry eye treatment in Colorado Springs, Ridgeview Optometry is ready to help.
Call us today or book your appointment online to start your path to relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes dry eyes in winter?
Dry eyes are often triggered by low humidity, cold wind, and indoor heating systems that dry out the air—leading to faster tear evaporation and irritation.
How do I know if I need professional treatment?
If your symptoms continue despite using artificial tears or home care strategies, it's time to see an optometrist. Chronic dry eye may require targeted treatment.
What makes Ridgeview Optometry different?
We provide expert-led evaluations and personalized care backed by modern treatments, ensuring you get relief that’s tailored to your specific needs and environment.
We are closed during the lunch hour, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.