Winter cold, dryness indoors from heaters and wood stoves, and plenty of screen time can cause discomfort for your eyes. A few ways to help:
We blink less when using a computer screen, so use the 20/20/20 rule: take a break every 20 minutes, to look 20 feet away for 20 minutes. This helps our focusing and eye-pointing muscles avoid too much time in one posture.
Use artificial tears such as Systane Ultra, Blink, Refresh Tears, etc. Avoid gel types during daytime, as they can be too thick to provide a clear image.
Bruder Masks are reusable, microwaveable warm eye compresses that feel like a spa treatment. They help by getting oil glands functioning better, which improves tear film. We keep these in stock, so stop by our office to pick one up.
Remove contact lenses nightly and replace them on schedule to reduce the risk for bacterial infection. Keeping the lens surface as smooth as possible makes vision clearer.
Most of all, it is hard to make tears if you are dehydrated, so drink plenty of water.
Brought to you by:
David A. Hackett, OD, FCOVD
Lifetime Eye Care a division of Sterling Vision
4765 Village Plaza Loop Eugene, Oregon
(541) 342-3100 or 866-4EYELUV sterlingvision.com
