Eye Exam Buffalo NY | Eye Care & Vision Associates

Don’t Sit Directly Next to Heat Sources

Staying close to heat sources could make dry eyes harder to manage. The air near heaters and radiators tends to be drier, and that impacts your eyes. Additionally, if the heat source also has a blower, the moving heat could dry out eyes even quicker.

Ideally, you want to have some distance between you and the heat source. While the air in a heated space may still be dry, it will be just a bit better if you aren’t as close.

Use a Humidifier to Add Moisture to the Air

Since heating systems reduce the amount of moisture in the air – a situation that can lead to dry eyes – putting moisture back into a space makes a difference. Often, a humidifier is the easiest way to go. The machines tend to be small and simple to use.

When you fill your humidifier, use distilled water instead of tap water. Distilled water doesn’t have any minerals or particles, so it won’t harm the machine. Additionally, it’s treated to remove bacteria, allergens, and other contaminants.

Drink More Water to Ensure You’re Hydrated

If you’re dehydrated, dry eyes are often more of an issue. Since heaters and dry air can speed up dehydration, you want to make an extra effort when it comes to staying hydrated. You replenish what you’re losing by drinking more water, ensuring your body can create enough tears to keep your eyes comfortable.

For anyone who isn’t the biggest fan of plain water, other options can also work. Foods with high water contents can make a difference, as well as beverages like green tea.

Eat More Fish to Keep Eyes Hydrated

The omega-3 fatty acids in cold-water fish can actually help keep your eyes more comfortable in the winter. Those fatty acids assist with moisture retention in the eyes, keeping them better lubricated even when the air is drier. Halibut, mackerel, and tuna are all great options. However, anything that provides a solid dose of omega-3s could potentially make a difference.

Use Artificial Tears to Rehydrate Eyes

If you’re eyes feel dry, there’s a good chance that they’re short on moisture. By using artificial tears, you can remoisten eyes and keep them from drying out as quickly.

Usually, artificial tears contain ingredients designed to enhance hydration and reduce evaporation, allowing your eyes to stay comfortable for longer periods. If you want guidance regarding artificial tears, speak with your eye doctor to see what they recommend.

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patient’s eyes are our priority. If you are struggling with dry eye this season or are experiencing symptoms that could indicate another problem, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.

At the beginning of the year, many people make health-oriented resolutions. If you want to make sure that your eyes are in the best shape possible, make them a priority in 2020. Here are some good eye health resolutions that are worth making this year and committing to for the long-term.

Wear Sunglasses

Harmful UV rays aren’t just bad for your skin; they can damage your eyes as well. By wearing wraparound sunglasses that offer full-spectrum UV protection, even on cloudy days, you are keeping those rays from harming your eyes.

Eat Healthy and Drink Water

What you eat and drink can also make a difference when you want to maintain good eye health. Your eyes need a variety of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to stay in the best shape possible. By consuming a diet chocked full of antioxidants and healthy fats, you are eating your way to better eye health.

But you can’t stop there. You also need to drink plenty of water. That way, water-soluble vitamins can dissolve properly, and your eyes can stay hydrated, preventing uncomfortable dry eye.

Take Screen Breaks

While devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers are handy, they aren’t great for eye health. They can cause you to blink less, drying out your eyes. Plus, they can lead to eye fatigue, headaches, and eye strain, or may even lead to blurry vision.

By taking breaks, you are letting your eyes rest and escape the “blue light” that can lead to many of the symptoms above. Plus, it may help you sleep better, too, as the blue light can disrupt circadian rhythms.

Care for Your Contact Lenses Properly

If you don’t care for your contacts properly, you are putting your eye health at risk. Without proper cleaning, bacteria can flourish. As a result, you might end up with an infection.

If you’ve been lax with your contact lens care, make 2020 the year you turn it around. Always follow the directions when using solutions, store your lenses properly, and replace them based on the lens manufacturer’s schedule.

Keep Your Eyes Clean

Failing to keep your eye area clean can also increase your odds of getting an infection. Use good hygiene and wash the area around your eyes at least daily using a mild cleanser. Also, always wash your hands before touching your eyes to reduce the spread of bacteria.

Schedule Your Eye Exam

By seeing an eye doctor regularly, you are supporting your eye health. Any issues can be identified early, allowing for quick intervention with the right treatment plan. Plus, it ensures that your visual acuity is as good as possible, which is also essential.

If you haven’t had your vision checked recently, then start the year off right by visiting your ophthalmologist or optometrist as soon as possible. Schedule an appointment at your nearest ECVA clinic today to help you achieve your eye health goals. Our experienced team works diligently to ensure your eye health by performing thorough exams. Plus, any vision issues can be corrected, ensuring you can see clearly. And we’ll design treatment options to meet your unique needs, whenever they arise.