•Dr Priscilia Imade
In Nigeria, the Yuletide season coincides with the Harmattan, which brings dry, dusty air and low humidity, making it a challenging time for individuals with dry eye disease (DED).
During this period, the combination of outdoor conditions, indoor air conditioning and increased screen time can exacerbate symptoms such as irritation, dryness and redness.
Some of the challenges for dry eye disease include:
Harmattan winds & dust
The Harmattan season brings dry, dusty air from the Sahara, which significantly reduces humidity levels. This causes rapid tear evaporation, leading to increased irritation and dryness in the eyes.
Air conditioning
As temperatures rise, air conditioning becomes common but the cold, dry air from AC units further dries out the eyes, worsening dry eye symptoms.
Increased screen time
During the holiday season, many people spend more time on digital devices for virtual gatherings, shopping, or watching festive movies. Prolonged screen time reduces blinking, contributing to eye strain and dryness.
Practical tips for managing Dry Eye Disease during this Yuletide
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water to help maintain moisture in your eyes. Proper hydration reduces the severity of dry eye symptoms caused by dry air and indoor heating.
Visit your Optometrist for lubricating eye drops
Keep preservative-free artificial tears on hand to lubricate your eyes and provide relief from dryness and irritation. This is especially important if you’re in air-conditioned environments or outdoors in dusty conditions.
Protect your eyes outdoors
Wear sunglasses or protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the dry, dusty winds of Harmattan. This helps prevent tear evaporation and reduces exposure to environmental irritants.
Take regular screen breaks
If you are spending more time on screens during the festive season, follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This reduces eye strain and encourages more frequent blinking.
Increase indoor humidity
Use a humidifier in your home or office to add moisture to the air, especially when using air conditioning. This helps prevent excessive tear evaporation and keeps your eyes more comfortable.
If symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, it is important to seek medical advice immediately.
Finally, the Harmattan season in Nigeria can make Dry Eye Disease more challenging due to dry air, dust and air conditioning. However, by staying hydrated, using lubricating drops, protecting your eyes from the elements and managing indoor humidity, individuals with dry eye disease can reduce discomfort and enjoy the festive season.
With the right eye care, the Yuletide season can be more comfortable and festive, without the added burden of dry eyes. Visit your Optometrist today for a comprehensive dry eye review. Do not end the year without having a comprehensive eye examination.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
