How to winter-proof your eyesight. Yes, you need to look after it in the cooler months
While the sun might not come out as bright – or quite as much – during winter it’s still important to care for your eyes in accordance with the changed weather conditions. Here’s what you need to know.
Dry eyes
The most common eye complaint during winter is that constant feeling of dry eyes. The burning, itchy and watering sensation is most often caused by low humidity levels inside building that are blasting the heat. Spending time outside on windy days can also cause irritation to the eyes. If you’re suffering from dry eyes, here’s what to do:
- Drink extra fluids to keep your body well-hydrated
- Use lubricating eye drops to help moisten eyes
- Wear glasses or sunglasses outdoors on a windy day to protect eyes from the drying effects of the wind
- Use a humidifier in areas with indoor heating to alleviate dryness in the air
Contact lens-wearers
The harsh winter air tends to affect contact lens wearers most. In particular, soft contact lenses need a lot of moisture. If they begin to dry out, they can change shape and stick to the eye causing eyes to become painful and cloudy. Keep eye drops that are suitable with contact lenses close-by and wear glasses if eyes are feeling particularly dry.
Sunglasses at the snow
It may be brisk but if you’re holidaying away at the snow, make sure you wear your sunglasses. Snow conditions doubles the sun’s damaging effects as UV rays enter your eyes from above as well as being reflected off the snow.