How does Cold Weather affect Eyes- Eye Care during Winter

By Dr. Sanjay Dhawan in Eye Care / Ophthalmology

Jan 08 , 2016 | 1 min read

As the temperature drops, you take measures to keep your body warm. But do you know that you need special eye care during winter? Keep reading to learn how the cold weather affects your eyes and how you can take care of your eyes in the chilled season.

Four Ways Cold Weather can Affect Your Eyes

Dry eyes

During the winter season, dry skin is common so are dry eyes due to lack of moisture in surroundings.

Excess tearing

While some people face the issue of dry eyes, others account for the problem of watery eyes due to the biting wind or allergies.

Blurry vision

Blurry vision is caused due to dry eyes.

Redness of eyes

Harsh winters can cause inflammation of the eyes, thus making eyes red.

How can You Take Care of Your Eyes During Winter?

Prevent Dry Eyes

Indoor temperature regulation- Go for oil-based convective heaters, which warm up slowly and keep the moisture in the air intact.
Blink your eyes more- Too much screen time makes your eyes dry, so blink your eyes more to lock the moisture. Take a break every 15 minutes and close your eyes for 15 seconds.
Avoid heaters- Avoid using Heaters and radiators as they cause heating without humidifying the air.

Diet Regulation

Coldwater fish- Omega 3 fatty acids retain moisture in your eyes. So include fishes such as mackerel, tuna, and halibut.
Hydrate- Fluid intake should be maintained in winter to keep yourself hydrated. Moreover, use a room air humidifier.

Outdoor Eye Care

Use sunglasses during winter, and harmful UV rays can still reach your eyes.
Don your snow goggles if you wallow in the snow as your eyes can get sunburnt by the reflection.
Wear sunglasses in the leaden sky and grey-brown clouds of smog as it causes an acidic reaction in the eye, which leads to irritation.