Pink Eye Is More Common In Winter: Here’s Why
- Posted on: Nov 15 2024
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, tends to be more prevalent in winter months. With its familiar symptoms like redness, itching, and watery eyes, pink eye is often associated with winter due to environmental and behavioral factors that are unique to the season.
Why Pink Eye Spreads More Easily in Winter
During winter, people tend to spend more time indoors with others, often nearby and in poorly ventilated areas. This close contact makes it easier for pink eye, especially viral and bacterial forms, to spread.
Additionally, central heating systems can reduce indoor humidity, drying out the eyes and making them more susceptible to infections.
Winter Colds and Flu Can Lead to Pink Eye
Cold and flu season coincides with winter, adding another reason for the increase in pink eye cases. Respiratory infections like the flu or a common cold can lead to viral conjunctivitis, a common type of pink eye.
When you’re already fighting off a respiratory virus, the infection can easily spread to your eyes, leading to conjunctivitis. Simple actions like touching your face or rubbing your eyes can transfer the virus to the sensitive eye area, causing inflammation.
Dry Winter Air Irritates Eyes
Low humidity levels, typical in winter, dry out the air, which in turn dries out your eyes. Dry eyes can lead to irritation, redness, and even minor inflammation, which may mimic or increase susceptibility to pink eye symptoms.
The dry air from indoor heating exacerbates this effect, so individuals may experience discomfort that can either be mistaken for pink eye or may make the eyes more prone to actual infections.
Staying Healthy and Preventing Pink Eye During Winter
While pink eye can be inconvenient, there are ways to minimize your risk. Washing your hands regularly, avoiding touching your eyes, and keeping shared spaces clean can help reduce the likelihood of contracting or spreading pink eye. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier indoors can also prevent your eyes from drying out.
Schedule a Pink Eye Treatment in Everett, WA
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pink eye or need advice on preventing conjunctivitis this winter, the team at Physicians Eye Clinic in Everett, WA, is here to help. Call us at (425) 259-2020 to schedule an appointment and keep your eyes healthy through the winter season.
Posted in: Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
