Winter is a beautiful time of year, but for many contact lens wearers, it can bring unique challenges—especially if you struggle with dry eyes. Between the cold, dry outdoor air and the warm, dry air from indoor heating systems, winter can create the perfect storm for eye discomfort. As an optometrist at Family Eye Care at Coral Springs Costco, I’ve seen countless patients battle these seasonal struggles. Fortunately, the right contact lenses and care routines can make all the difference. Let’s explore how you can keep your eyes comfortable and healthy this winter season.
If you’ve ever noticed your eyes feeling gritty, itchy, or irritated during the winter, you’re not alone. These are classic symptoms of dry eyes, a condition that worsens during this time of year due to environmental factors. The cold air outside lacks humidity, while indoor heating systems strip moisture from the air, creating a double whammy of dryness. For contact lens wearers, this can mean lenses that feel uncomfortable, stick to your eyes, or even worsen irritation.
Dry eyes don’t just make wearing contacts unpleasant—they can also impact your eye health. Inadequate tear production or poor-quality tears can make it harder for your lenses to sit comfortably on your eyes, leading to redness, blurry vision, and even an increased risk of eye infections.
Thankfully, advancements in contact lens technology mean there are excellent options for managing dry eyes, even during the challenging winter months. Here are some of the best types of lenses to consider:
1. Silicone Hydrogel Lenses
Silicone hydrogel lenses are a game-changer for many patients with dry eyes. These lenses allow significantly more oxygen to pass through to the cornea than traditional hydrogel lenses, promoting healthier, more hydrated eyes. Increased oxygen permeability can help reduce the dryness and irritation often exacerbated by winter conditions.
2. Daily Disposable Lenses
If you’re struggling with dryness, daily disposables could be your best friend. These lenses are designed to be worn for a single day and then discarded, meaning you always start with a fresh, clean pair. This reduces the build-up of proteins and allergens on the lenses, which can aggravate dryness. Plus, the convenience of not needing to clean and store your lenses every night is an added bonus.
3. Lenses with Built-In Moisture Technology
Some lenses are specifically designed with moisture technology or embedded wetting agents that help retain water and maintain hydration throughout the day. Brands like Acuvue Oasys and DAILIES Total1 are known for their ability to lock in moisture, making them ideal for dry eye sufferers.
In addition to choosing the right lenses, there are a few proactive steps you can take to keep your eyes feeling comfortable this winter:
1. Use Rewetting Drops
Rewetting drops or artificial tears specifically formulated for contact lens wearers can provide instant relief from dryness. Look for preservative-free options for sensitive eyes.
2. Follow Proper Cleaning Routines
If you’re wearing reusable lenses, make sure to clean and store them properly using a high-quality solution. Neglecting your lens hygiene can exacerbate irritation and increase your risk of infections.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps maintain your overall hydration levels, which directly impacts the quality of your tears. Winter often causes us to drink less water, so make a conscious effort to stay hydrated.
4. Invest in a Humidifier
Using a humidifier in your home or office can help combat the dryness caused by indoor heating systems, keeping your eyes more comfortable.
5. Wear Protective Eyewear Outdoors
On windy days, consider wearing sunglasses or wraparound glasses to shield your eyes from cold, dry air.
While these tips and lens options are helpful, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s eyes are different. A consultation with an eye doctor can help you find the best lenses and solutions tailored to your unique needs. At Family Eye Care in Coral Springs, Florida, we specialize in helping patients find comfortable and effective contact lens options, even for challenging conditions like dry eyes.
I recently worked with a patient who had nearly given up on wearing contacts during the winter. After switching them to daily disposables with moisture technology, they were thrilled to report that they could wear their lenses all day without discomfort. Stories like this remind me why I love what I do—helping people see clearly and comfortably.
Don’t let the winter season get in the way of your contact lens comfort. Whether you’re interested in trying silicone hydrogel lenses, daily disposables, or lenses with moisture technology, the team at Family Eye Care at Coral Springs Costco is here to help. Schedule a personalized consultation with one of our optometrists today to explore the best options for your eyes.
Your eye health and comfort are our top priorities, and we’re committed to helping you enjoy clear, irritation-free vision all year round. Let’s make this winter your most comfortable one yet—visit us in Coral Springs and discover the difference expert eye care can make.
