As the temperature drops and the Calgary winds pick up, you might notice your eyes start to water more than usual. It’s a common winter frustration for many families we see at our clinic, from your own irritated eyes to your kids’ teary-eyed return from playing outside.
Persistent watery eyes may indicate an underlying condition, such as dry eye disease, which an optometrist can help manage. In less severe cases, you can find relief by avoiding environmental triggers or using simple at-home strategies to protect your family’s eyes.
Why Your Eyes Water More When It’s Cold
Your eyes often tear up in winter as a natural response to the environment. The crisp air, wind, and even the dry heat inside your home can trigger this reaction. It’s your body’s way of trying to protect your eyes.
Here are some of the factors to watch out for:
Cold and Windy Weather
Your eyes produce a tear film to stay moist and clear. Cold, windy weather can cause this film to evaporate quickly, leaving your eyes feeling dry and exposed. In response, your tear glands work overtime to produce more tears as a protective barrier.
Dry Indoor Air
Turning up the furnace creates a warm, cozy home, but it also zaps moisture from the air. This dry air can irritate your eyes and cause them to water. This is one of the most common dry eye symptoms experienced in Calgary during the winter.
Illness or Allergies
Sometimes watery eyes are simply a symptom of a seasonal cold or indoor allergies from dust or pet dander, as people tend to spend more time inside with windows closed. If you or your child also has a stuffy nose or starts sneezing, this might be the reason. These reflex tears are part of the body’s normal immune response.
What Causes Persistent Watery Eyes
If your eyes are constantly tearing up regardless of the weather, there might be another cause. An eye doctor can help determine the source of the problem.
Your tears normally drain through tiny ducts in the corners of your eyelids. If these ducts become blocked, the tears have nowhere to go and will overflow. This can make your eyes water constantly, even when you’re indoors.
Additionally, it sounds strange, but chronic dry eye is a main cause of watery eyes. When the oil glands in your eyelids don’t produce the right quality of tears to stay lubricated, they become irritated. This irritation triggers your glands to produce an excess of watery reflex tears that don’t lubricate well.
At-Home Tips and Tricks for Relief
You can take simple steps to manage watery eyes during the winter months. A few small adjustments to your family’s daily routine can make a big difference, including:
- Wear high-quality sunglasses or protective eyewear outdoors to shield your eyes from the wind.
- Use a humidifier in your home to add much-needed moisture back into the air.
- Gently dab your eyes with a clean, soft cloth instead of rubbing them to reduce irritation.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
One of the most popular solutions is lubricating eye drops, often called artificial tears, which can offer temporary relief from dryness. They work by supplementing your natural tear film. Look for preservative-free options if you find you need to use them frequently.
Protect Your Child’s Eyes This Winter
Kids spend a lot of time playing outdoors, even when it’s cold, so it’s important to protect their eyes from the elements.
Encourage your children to wear sunglasses or ski goggles when they’re outside. This helps protect their eyes from wind, debris, and the UV rays that reflect off the snow. It’s a simple habit that supports their long-term eye health.
Winter watery eyes are usually harmless, but you should also pay close attention to any comments they make about their vision. If your child also mentions blurry vision or squints to see things far away, it could be a sign of nearsightedness, also known as myopia.
When to See an Optometrist
While most cases of watery eyes resolve on their own, some symptoms may indicate it’s time to see a professional. A comprehensive eye exam can get to the root of the problem. You don’t have to live with the discomfort.
If you or your child experiences any of the following, it’s a good idea to book an appointment:
- Watery eyes that interfere with your daily activities.
- Redness, pain, or a gritty feeling in your eyes.
- Changes in your vision or your child’s vision.
- Eye watering that continues indoors and in mild weather.
Find a Long-Term Solution for Watery Eyes
Trinity Hills Eyecare is ready to assess your family’s eye health in a comfortable setting. We can determine whether your watery eyes are due to winter conditions, dry eye, or another issue. From there, we can suggest a personalized care plan to help you find lasting relief.
You and your family deserve clear, comfortable vision all year long. We’re here to help you understand your eye health and find solutions that work for you. Book your appointment with us today!
