How Cold Weather Affects The Eyes

How Cold Weather Affects The Eyes

It is no secret that the winter season has a habit of making us change up our daily routines to prepare for what the cold months bring. This could mean anything from preparing to deal with dangerous and icy roads or simply putting on a few extra layers to to protect yourself from the harsh winds.

How Cold Weather Affects the Eyes

Your environment and your wardrobe are not the only things that will need preparation for winter; our bodies and health are often just as affected. Due to the harsh winter winds and the dry heat radiating inside, the one part of our body that often receives the worst of the winter weather is our eyes!

Exposure to cold weather conditions and indoor heat can cause the natural moisture within our eyes to evaporate and normally our tear glands would kick in to provide a protective coating to hydrate our eyes. However, in the winter months they may not keep up with the amount needed, causing dry eyes.

Here are a few steps you can take to ensure your eyes stay as hydrated as possible:

Increase your home’s humidity level

Buy a humidifier, place a bowl of water near a heat source, dry your clothes indoors. These are all ways of increasing the humidity within your home.

Increase your intake of Omega-3 fatty acids

Supplements of Omega-3 fatty acids or dietary sources such as tuna fish can reduce dryness. The use and dosage of nutritional supplements should be discussed with your doctor.

Stay hydrated

Ensuring an adequate intake of water throughout the day will help to keep your eyes moist. Liquid-rich fruits and vegetables, as well as hot soups can all help.

Use lubricating eye drops

Artificial tears and gels, available over the counter, can be used to relieve symptoms.

 

All in all, if your eyes feel dry in the winter remember to hydrate, humidify, and if needed use eye drops for relief. If symptoms persist, our eye care professionals are ready to check your eyes and offer specific advice, tailor-made for you.

CQC