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 seconds. 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.
It’s hard to make tears if you are dehydrated, so drink plenty of water and avoid diuretics like caffeine and alcohol.
Consider washing your eyelids with warm water and non-irritating soap such as baby shampoo.
Keeping your eyes in good health goes a long way in feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day. Stay up-to-date with your regular eye exams, and let your eye doctor know if you’ve started or stopped any medications, as certain types can be drying.
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
