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3 Ways Winter Can Affect Eyes

The Winter season often brings the celebration of holidays, seasonal activities and foods, and colder weather. Unfortunately, red itchy eyes in winter and weird vision changes often come along with it. What can be done for eyes that are affected by cold temperatures and dry air? Here are some tips. 

 

Dry Eyes 

Winter is notorious for being a dry time of year. Skin, lips, and even eyes can experience the effects of this dryness. For those with uncomfortably dry eyes this time of year, here are a few remedies to try: 

  • Add moisture to the indoor air with a humidifier. It can be used while you sleep or all throughout the day, and it will help add some necessary moisture back into the air. It is important to clean the humidifier properly, and often, so it does not breed bacteria. 
  • Use artificial tears. Moisture-rich eye drops can help lubricate the eyes and get them feeling back to normal. 
  • Check your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids found in most fish can combat dryness from the inside out. 

 

Tearing Eyes 

Another common complaint that comes with winter weather is the constant tearing of the eyes. This could be the body’s way of dealing with the cold temperatures and winds, or it could be due to seasonal allergies. Make sure to wear sunglasses or goggles when outside in the winter, and try an over-the-counter allergy pill to see if it helps. If neither option seems to work, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. 

 

Redness

An ill effect of this cold season is redness. For those suffering from dryness, the eyes may become red as a result. Red itchy eyes in winter can also be caused by allergies.  Redness can also indicate photokeratitis (also called “snow blindness”), which often requires medical attention. Try using a cool compress on the eyelids to get relief. If no improvement is made, schedule an appointment for an eye exam. 

 

Strange vision changes

Fluctuations in eyesight can be directly related to changes in the weather. The eyes have blood vessels, like any other part of your body, and the cold causes them to get smaller. Naturally, this impacts blood flow and can alter vision. If it is an occasional issue, and subsides after warming up, there is no real problem. If changes in vision happen frequently, see an eye doctor. 


Experiencing eye issues thanks to the winter season? Contact us for more tips or to schedule an appointment!