Eye Care and Cold Weather

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Dryness: Cold weather often means low humidity levels, which can lead to dry eyes. When the air is dry, tears evaporate more quickly, causing discomfort, redness, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Using lubricating eye drops can help alleviate these symptoms.
Wind: Cold weather is often accompanied by strong winds, which can cause further dryness and irritation to the eyes. Wind can increase tear evaporation and carry dust, debris, and allergens that can irritate the eyes. Wearing protective eyewear, such as sunglasses or goggles, can shield the eyes from wind and reduce these effects.
Sun exposure: Although it might be counterintuitive, the sun can still pose a risk to your eyes even in cold weather. The reflection of sunlight off snow or ice, known as snow blindness, can cause temporary damage to the cornea, resulting in pain, redness, and blurred vision. It’s important to wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection when spending time outdoors, especially in snowy environments.
Contact lenses: Cold weather can affect contact lens wearers. When the eyes are exposed to cold temperatures, blood vessels in the eyes may constrict, reducing the oxygen supply to the cornea. This can make wearing contact lenses more uncomfortable and lead to dryness and irritation. Keeping the eyes lubricated with artificial tears or considering switching to glasses during extreme cold weather can be beneficial.

To protect your eyes during cold weather, consider the following tips:

Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, particularly when there’s snow or ice on the ground.
Use lubricating eye drops to combat dryness and soothe any irritation.
Wear goggles or protective eyewear when participating in winter sports or activities that expose your eyes to wind, dust, or debris.
If you wear contact lenses, keep your eyes lubricated and consider using rewetting drops to alleviate discomfort.
Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen any irritation or dryness.

If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, it’s always best to consult an eye care professional for a proper evaluation and guidance.