3 Simple Habits to Prevent Dry Eyes in Calgary's Dry Climate

Living in Calgary means experiencing beautiful blue skies and a dry climate. However, this same dry air can be tough on our eyes, often leading to uncomfortable symptoms of dry eye. If you’ve ever dealt with itching, burning, or a gritty sensation in your eyes, you’re not alone. At Sunridge Eye Clinic, we understand how frustrating dry eyes can be and the impact they can have on your daily life. Fortunately, there are simple habits you can adopt to help prevent dry eye symptoms and keep your eyes feeling comfortable. In this blog, we’ll cover three easy steps you can take to protect your eyes in Calgary’s dry climate.

1. Keep Your Eyes Hydrated

One of the most effective ways to prevent dry eyes is to ensure your eyes stay well-hydrated. When the air is dry, our tears can evaporate more quickly, leaving our eyes feeling parched. It’s essential to keep them moist throughout the day, and there are several simple ways to do this.

Use Artificial Tears

Artificial tears are a great way to add moisture back into your eyes, especially if you’re experiencing dryness or irritation. These over-the-counter eye drops mimic your natural tears and help keep your eyes lubricated. Regular use can prevent discomfort and irritation, especially in Calgary’s dry environment. Make sure to choose preservative-free options if you plan on using them frequently.

Stay Hydrated

It’s not just your eyes that need moisture—your entire body does too! Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help support overall hydration, including your eyes. When you’re dehydrated, your tear production can decrease, making it harder for your eyes to stay lubricated. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, especially during Calgary’s drier months.

Invest in a Humidifier

A humidifier can be a game-changer in dry environments. Adding moisture to the air in your home or office can help prevent your eyes from drying out. This is especially important during the winter months when heating systems further reduce indoor humidity. Running a humidifier in the rooms where you spend the most time can make a noticeable difference in keeping your eyes hydrated and comfortable.

2. Take Breaks from Screens

In our digital age, many of us spend hours a day looking at screens, whether it’s for work, entertainment, or staying connected. Unfortunately, extended screen time can make dry eye symptoms worse. When we focus on a screen, we tend to blink less frequently, causing our tears to evaporate more quickly. This lack of blinking can lead to dryness, eye strain, and discomfort.

Practice the 20-20-20 Rule

One of the easiest ways to protect your eyes from screen-related dryness is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This simple habit helps give your eyes a break, encouraging blinking and reducing the strain from prolonged screen use.

Blink More Often

It may sound simple, but making a conscious effort to blink more can really help keep your eyes moist. Blinking helps to spread a fresh layer of tears across your eyes, preventing dryness and irritation. If you find yourself staring at a screen for long periods, try to remind yourself to blink regularly to keep your eyes hydrated.

3. Protect Your Eyes from the Elements

Calgary’s dry climate, combined with wind and cold weather, can further aggravate dry eyes. Taking steps to shield your eyes from the elements can help prevent moisture loss and irritation, especially when you’re outdoors.

Wear Wraparound Sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses isn’t just about protecting your eyes from UV rays; it’s also about shielding them from the dry wind. Wraparound sunglasses are especially helpful because they prevent wind and debris from entering your eyes, helping to reduce tear evaporation. They’re a great choice when you’re out for a walk, hike, or run in Calgary’s dry and often windy conditions.

Avoid Direct Heat and Wind

If you’re using a heater or air conditioning, try to avoid sitting directly in front of the vent, as the blowing air can dry out your eyes quickly. Similarly, on windy days, consider using protective eyewear to prevent the elements from aggravating your dry eye symptoms.

Dry eyes are a common problem in Calgary’s dry climate, but with a few simple habits, you can protect your eyes and prevent discomfort. Staying hydrated, taking regular breaks from screens, and shielding your eyes from wind and dry air are all effective ways to keep your eyes feeling comfortable. At Sunridge Eye Clinic, we’re here to help you maintain your eye health and find relief from dry eye symptoms. If you’re struggling with dry eyes, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Together, we can help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable in Calgary’s unique climate. 
 

FAQs

Q: How can I keep my eyes hydrated in a dry climate?
A: Use artificial tears to add moisture, stay hydrated by drinking water, and consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air indoors.

Q: What is the 20-20-20 rule, and how does it help with dry eyes?
A: The 20-20-20 rule helps reduce eye strain from screens. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to encourage blinking and reduce dryness.

Q: How can a humidifier help with dry eyes?
A: A humidifier adds moisture to dry indoor air, which can help keep your eyes hydrated, especially during winter or when using heating. Call us or book your appointment for personalized care!