Why Dry Eye Symptoms Flare Up in Calgary Winters
Calgary’s winter weather is harsh, and not just on your skin. The cold, dry air and artificial heat from furnaces, space heaters, and fireplaces can wreak havoc on your tear film. That’s the protective layer of moisture that keeps your eyes hydrated and healthy. When it evaporates too quickly or isn’t produced in enough quantity, dry eye symptoms can take over. These may include:
- A gritty or burning sensation
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Blurred vision
- Redness and irritation
- Eye fatigue or sensitivity to light
Even people who don’t normally deal with dry eyes may notice symptoms spike in winter, especially if they spend long hours in front of screens or in heated indoor environments. And for those with chronic dry eye, the season can be downright miserable.
At Market Mall Optometry, we take dry eyes seriously. Our assessments look deeper than surface symptoms to identify the root causes, then we create personalized plans to restore comfort and reduce long-term damage.
How to Soothe and Prevent Dry Eyes This Winter
1. Identify the Source of Your Dryness
Not all dry eye cases are the same. You might have:
- Evaporative dry eye (not enough oil in the tears)
- Aqueous-deficient dry eye (not enough tear production)
- Or a combination of both
At your dry eye assessment, we’ll check tear film quality, inflammation levels, and eye surface health using advanced diagnostics to determine what’s going wrong and how to fix it.
2. Boost Moisture with the Right Treatments
For mild cases, over-the-counter artificial tears might help, but if they’re not working, it’s time to explore in-clinic options:
- Preservative-free drops for sensitive eyes
- Lubricating gels for overnight comfort
- Prescription anti-inflammatory drops (e.g., cyclosporine or lifitegrast)
- Warm compresses to stimulate meibomian glands
- In-office dry eye therapies (if appropriate)
We’ll recommend what’s best for your specific condition—not just a one-size-fits-all solution.
3. Create a Dry Eye-Friendly Environment
Winter dryness is environmental, so controlling your surroundings can make a huge difference:
- Use a humidifier to counteract dry indoor air
- Limit direct heat exposure (avoid sitting close to heaters)
- Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to block wind
- Take screen breaks using the 20-20-20 rule
Small lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce eye strain and discomfort.
4. Don’t Ignore Chronic Symptoms
If your symptoms persist despite drops or lifestyle changes, there may be underlying inflammation, gland dysfunction, or even autoimmune involvement. We can perform additional testing and recommend long-term treatment plans, because dry eye isn’t just uncomfortable. It can lead to corneal damage and vision changes if untreated.
Book a Winter Dry Eye Assessment in NW Calgary
You don’t have to live with sore, gritty, or itchy eyes this winter. Whether your dry eyes are mild and seasonal or severe and persistent, Market Mall Optometry is here to help. Our dry eye treatment plans are customized for your condition and lifestyle, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.
- Advanced dry eye assessments
- Personalized treatment options
- Convenient NW Calgary location inside Market Mall
Contact us today to schedule your dry eye assessment and feel the difference personalized care can make. Your eyes deserve relief, especially in winter.
FAQs
Q: What causes dry eyes in winter?
A: Calgary’s cold air and indoor heating reduce humidity, causing tears to evaporate quickly. This leads to irritation and discomfort. Experiencing discomfort from dry eye? Contact Market Mall Optometry today to book a dry eye assessment.
Q: Are dry eyes more common during winter in Calgary?
A: Yes, dry eyes often flare up during Calgary’s dry, windy winters due to environmental factors like indoor heat and low humidity.
Q: How can I treat dry eyes at home?
A: Use a humidifier, apply warm compresses, take screen breaks, and use preservative-free artificial tears.
