As temperatures drop, many people experience a noticeable increase in dry eye symptoms. If your eyes feel gritty, irritated, or watery during the colder months, you are not alone. At San Marino Optometry, we often see patients whose dry eye symptoms become more pronounced in the winter. Understanding why this happens and knowing when to seek treatment can help protect your vision and comfort year-round.
 

How Cold Weather Affects Your Eyes

Cold air tends to be drier than warm air, and this lack of humidity can lead to increased evaporation of your natural tear film. Indoor heating systems also play a role, stripping moisture from the air and creating a dry environment that exacerbates symptoms.
 

Other winter conditions such as wind exposure and spending more time staring at screens indoors can contribute to dry eyes as well. Blinking less frequently while using digital devices or reading can prevent tears from spreading evenly across the eyes, leading to irritation and discomfort.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

You might notice:

• Burning or stinging sensation

• Redness and irritation

• Watery eyes

• Blurred vision that improves with blinking

• A feeling like something is in your eye
   

If these symptoms become persistent or interfere with your daily life, it may be time to seek professional help.
 

When to See Your Eye Doctor

It is important to schedule an appointment if your symptoms do not improve with over-the-counter eye drops or lifestyle adjustments. Chronic dry eye can lead to damage to the eye's surface if left untreated. At San Marino Optometry, we use advanced diagnostic tools to determine the exact cause of your dry eye and create a personalized treatment plan.
 

Advanced Treatments We Offer

If you are dealing with moderate to severe dry eye symptoms, we provide innovative treatments designed to offer long-term relief:

• Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL): IPL reduces inflammation around the eyelids and stimulates the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oil layer of your tear film. This helps stabilize your tears and reduce evaporation.

• NuLIDS PRO: This device gently massages and cleans the eyelid margins to improve gland function and promote healthy tear production. NuLIDS PRO is a convenient, effective way to maintain relief between office visits.
   

Take Control of Your Eye Health at San Marino Optometry

Cold weather may worsen dry eyes, but you do not have to suffer through the season. With expert diagnosis and the right treatment plan, lasting relief is possible.
 

If you are experiencing dry, irritated eyes, schedule a consultation with San Marino Optometry at our office in San Marino, California, for personalized relief and protect your vision no matter the season. We proudly serve the San Marino, San Gabriel, and Arcadia communities. Please call (626) 415-3600 to book an appointment today.