It’s getting colder which means cozy scarves, thick socks, and cups of hot chocolate (this particular opticians in Doncaster loves its hot chocolate…)
But have you thought about how winter affects your eyes?
You might not realise it, but winter can throw some curveballs when it comes to eye health. So, let’s chat about the common issues that pop up during the winter months and how to keep those peepers in tip-top shape.
Why do my eyes feel dry in winter?
Winter air is notorious for being dry, both outdoors and indoors. The combination of cold winds and indoor heating can zap the moisture right out of your eyes, leading to discomfort, itchiness, and that dreaded gritty feeling (urgh). Here’s how you battle it.
- Use a humidifier
- Since indoor heating dries out the air (and your eyes), consider using a humidifier at home or in the office to add some moisture back into the environment. This simple gadget can make a huge difference in keeping your eyes hydrated.
- Stay hydrated
- Remember to drink plenty of water. It’s easy to forget to hydrate during winter, but your body (and eyes!) still need fluids, so drink up!
- Try eye drops
- If your eyes are persistently dry, lubricating eye drops can be a lifesaver. You don’t need to use them every hour, but a few times a day can make your eyes feel much better (we know an opticians in Doncaster who can help… 😉)
Is cold wind really that bad for my eyes?
Yes, that winter wind can be more than just annoying—it can lead to watery eyes and exacerbate dryness. Cold air, especially when combined with wind, can strip away the natural tear film that protects your eyes, causing your eyes to overproduce tears to compensate. So what can you do?
- Wear sunglasses
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you should retire your shades! Sunglasses act as a barrier between your eyes and the wind, plus they protect against UV rays (yes, even in winter). - Avoid direct wind exposure
If you’re out walking on a particularly windy day, try to keep your face turned away from the wind whenever possible. Wearing a hat with a brim can also help shield your eyes from direct gusts.
What’s with all the light sensitivity in winter?
If you find yourself squinting more in winter, you’re not alone. Light sensitivity can become an issue because of the sun reflecting off ice, snow or even from harsh artificial lighting indoors. Winter glare is a real thing, and while it might look pretty, it can be tough on your eyes.
Invest in high-quality lens protection
‘Nightsafe’ lenses are a winter must-have if you’re dealing with snow glare. They reduce the harsh reflection from snow, making your vision clearer and more comfortable. Definitely speak to us if you’re keen to get some.
Dim those indoor lights
If indoor lighting is too harsh, try adjusting the brightness or using lamps instead of overhead lighting. Your eyes will appreciate the softer light, especially in the evening when natural light is limited.
How can I protect my eyes from winter allergies?
Yep, winter allergies are a thing! Although you might associate allergies with spring, indoor allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander tend to become more prominent during the winter months. These allergens can cause itchy, watery, or red eyes, making winter all the more uncomfortable so you might want to try the below.
Keep you living space clean
Sounds simple, but regularly vacuuming and dusting your home can reduce allergens and help keep your eyes happy. Don’t forget to wash bedding frequently and keep pets out of the bedroom if you’re sensitive to pet dander.
Use allergen-blocking air filters
Installing air filters in your home’s ventilation system can help trap allergens, providing some relief. This’ll help prevent irritants from circulating around your house and settling in your eyes.
Can cold weather affect my vision?
For most people, winter doesn’t drastically change their vision, but there are a few potential vision-related issues to keep an eye on (pun intended). If you wear glasses, they might fog up more frequently due to the transition between cold outdoor air and warm indoor temperatures. If you wear contacts, the dry air might make them feel less comfortable. Here’s a couple of solutions.
Use anti-fog wipes for glasses
If foggy lenses are the bane of your winter existence, anti-fog wipes or sprays can work wonders. They help reduce condensation buildup, so you’re not constantly wiping your glasses every time you walk inside – another reason to visit a certain Doncaster optician (us) if you need some.
Consider switching to glasses
For contact lens wearers, winter dryness can make contacts less comfortable. If your eyes feel dry or irritated, consider switching to glasses more often, especially on particularly windy or dry days.
Do I still need UV protection in winter?
Absolutely! Even though the days are shorter and the sun seems less intense, UV rays can still harm your eyes. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, increasing your risk of damage, even on cloudy days… which means you should:
Wear UV-protective sunglasses
Sunglasses aren’t just for summer. Make sure your winter shades offer 100% UV protection, as this will shield your eyes from harmful rays. Or, you can come and speak to us about our top-of-the-range lens coating that offers 420++ UV protection – the best of the best.
Consider hats with visors
A wide-brimmed hat or cap with a visor can help block UV rays and glare, offering additional protection for your eyes when outdoors.
What should I do if I get snow or ice in my eyes?
Accidents happen! Whether it’s a snowball fight gone wrong or you’ve brushed snow off a tree into your face, snow or ice can be irritating if it gets into your eyes (or your kids eyes!). Here’s what to do.
Rinse your eyes immediately
If you get snow or ice in your eyes, rinse them with clean, lukewarm water as soon as possible. Don’t rub them—this can cause further irritation.
Get expert advice if necessary
If your eyes feel sore or you experience any changes in vision after getting snow or ice in them, come and see us. It’s always better to be safe than sorry! Plus, there’s hardly anything this Doncaster optician hasn’t seen already!
What are the best ways to prevent winter eye strain?
Winter often means more time spent indoors, which means the inevitable will happen – more screen time. Whether you’re binging your favorite show, working from home or need the kids distracted, staring at screens for extended periods can increase the chance of digital eye strain. Here’s what we recommend.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a chance to rest and refocus, reducing strain.
Adjust your screen settings
Make sure your screen brightness isn’t too high, and consider using a blue light filter to minimise eye strain. It’s a simple change that can make a massive difference in your comfort.
Quick summary
Winter can be tough on your eyes, but with a few simple adjustments, you can keep them healthy and comfortable throughout the season. From managing dryness to protecting against UV rays and avoiding excess screen time, there’s plenty you can do to look after your eyes. After all, they deserve just as much care as the rest of you—especially when they’re helping you navigate through those classic UK cold, windy days!
And remember, the BEST thing you can do is get your eyes checked regulary and keep up with your appointments – This Doncaster optician will always be happy to see you!
