With dry air becoming more common in winter months, many people in Florida experience discomfort, including dry, irritated eyes. At the Filutowski Eye Institute, we want to help you enjoy the holiday season without the frustration of dry eyes. Whether you’re planning to gather with family or preparing for holiday travel, taking care of your eyes is essential.
And since it’s Thanksgiving, we’ll not only share practical tips for keeping your eyes comfortable, but also sprinkle in a little holiday cheer—complete with a simple, delicious Thanksgiving pie recipe at the end. Let’s dive in!
1. Stay Hydrated
Winter in Florida may not be frigid, but the drier air can still have an impact on your eyes. Staying hydrated is key. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain healthy tear production, keeping your eyes moisturized and comfortable. When you’re sipping on that holiday punch, remember that water is the best beverage for both your body and your eyes!
2. Use a Humidifier
With cooler temperatures, many of us turn on the heat indoors. Unfortunately, this dries out the air even further. Using a humidifier at home can help add moisture to the air, which in turn prevents your eyes from feeling dry and irritated. It’s a simple solution that makes a big difference, especially when you’re enjoying Thanksgiving dinner with your family or watching football after the big meal.
3. Give Your Eyes a Break from Screens
The holidays are often a time to relax, but with so many of us glued to our devices—whether it’s online shopping for Black Friday deals, watching Thanksgiving parades, or catching up on holiday movies—eye strain can creep in. The more time you spend in front of screens, the more you blink less frequently, which can worsen dry eyes. To prevent this, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. Your eyes will thank you!
4. Blink More Often
This may sound simple, but many people don’t blink enough, especially when they’re concentrating—whether that’s preparing Thanksgiving pies or watching the game. Blinking helps spread tears evenly over your eyes, keeping them moist and comfortable. Try to consciously blink more when you’re focused on activities, whether it’s baking in the kitchen or reading a holiday book by the fire.
5. Schedule a Dry Eye Evaluation
If you’re experiencing consistent dry eye symptoms this winter, it might be time to seek professional help. At the Filutowski Eye Institute, we offer thorough dry eye evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address your specific needs. From advanced diagnostic technology to treatment options tailored to your symptoms, we’ll help ensure your eyes feel great through the holiday season and beyond.
Fun Thanksgiving Tie-In: Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Now, to tie in a bit of Thanksgiving cheer! Here’s a quick and easy pumpkin pie recipe to add to your holiday celebrations. Because just like your eyes need care, your family deserves a little sweetness this Thanksgiving.
Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 large eggs
- 1 9-inch pie shell (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Mix together the pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add them to the pumpkin mixture.
- Gradually stir in the evaporated milk.
- Pour the mixture into the pie shell.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then lower the temperature to 350°F and bake for 40-50 minutes until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy with your family!
After enjoying your slice of pie, remember that eye health is just as important as indulging in holiday treats.
Questions to Ask About Dry Eye and Winter Care
If you’ve been experiencing dry eyes this season, it’s important to know when to seek help. Here are some helpful questions to ask during your next eye care appointment:
- What are the most common causes of dry eyes in the winter?
- How do environmental factors, like air conditioning and heat, contribute to dry eyes?
- What treatment options are available for dry eye relief at the Filutowski Eye Institute?
- Are there over-the-counter eye drops or home remedies you recommend for winter dry eyes?
- When should I consider seeing a specialist for chronic dry eye symptoms?
Getting these questions answered will help you better understand your eye health and ensure you’re taking the right steps to keep your vision clear and comfortable.
The Filutowski Eye Institute Difference
At the Filutowski Eye Institute, we understand that eye health is about more than just seeing clearly—it’s about living your best life. We have over 25 years of experience providing advanced eye care, including treatments for dry eyes. With convenient locations in Orlando, Lake Mary, and Daytona Beach, we’re here to help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable all year long.
In Conclusion
This Thanksgiving, don’t just think about your family’s feast—think about your eye health too. By staying hydrated, using a humidifier, blinking more often, and scheduling a dry eye evaluation, you can enjoy a comfortable and clear holiday season. If dry eyes are troubling you, the Filutowski Eye Institute is here to help. Contact us today at (407) 333-5111 or visit filutowskieye.com to schedule a consultation. Your eyes deserve the best care, so take action today to protect your vision this winter!
