Winter and Your Eyes: Common Conditions and How to Protect Your Vision
Winter brings its own set of health challenges, and your eyes are no exception.
Between colder temperatures, windier conditions, and shorter days, the season can impact your eye health in ways you might not expect. Charlotte Cook, Optometrist at Bayfields Opticians and Audiologists, shares insights into the most common winter eye issues, prevention tips, and when to seek professional advice.
As temperatures drop, we naturally spend more time indoors—and on our screens. While cosying up with your laptop or phone may sound harmless, it can wreak havoc on your eyes.
“Using digital devices for long periods leads to reduced blinking, causing dry eyes,” Charlotte explains. “It also strains the muscles that help your eyes focus, which can have lasting effects.”
What to do:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Blink more often to keep your eyes lubricated.
- If you wear contact lenses, consider switching to glasses periodically to give your eyes a break.
Spending less time outdoors during winter doesn’t just impact your mood—it can also affect your vision. Research shows a link between limited exposure to natural light and the development of myopia, especially in children.
“Even just two hours a day outside can reduce the risk of developing myopia,” Charlotte says.
What to do:
- Make an effort to get outside daily, even on overcast days.
- Encourage children to spend time playing outdoors instead of focusing solely on screens or books.
Natural light not only supports proper eye development but also gives your eyes a much-needed break from close-up activities.
It might seem counterintuitive, but excessively watery eyes can actually be a symptom of dryness. Winter winds, coupled with dry indoor heating, strip moisture from your eyes, prompting them to overproduce tears.
“Cold air holds less moisture, making your eyes more prone to evaporation and dryness,” Charlotte explains.
What to do:
- Stay hydrated to support your eye’s natural moisture levels.
- Use a humidifier to counteract dry indoor air.
- Protect your eyes outdoors with wraparound sunglasses or goggles to shield them from the wind.
If watery eyes persist, consult an optometrist. Left untreated, severe dryness can lead to blurry vision and even damage to the cornea.
While we know to protect our eyes from too much sunlight, the lower levels of sunlight in winter can also be problematic. Vitamin D deficiency, which is more common in the colder months, is linked to eye conditions like dry eyes and macular degeneration.
“Vitamin D is essential for tear function and overall eye health,” Charlotte explains.
What to do:
- Consider taking a Vitamin D supplement during winter.
- Whenever possible, step outside during daylight hours to soak up natural light.
Winter’s unique challenges mean it’s more important than ever to pay attention to your eye health. If you experience persistent discomfort, changes in vision, or symptoms that don’t improve, don’t wait—schedule a visit with an optometrist.
Regular check-ups can catch issues early and provide tailored solutions, ensuring your eyes stay healthy and comfortable all season long.
If you would like some advice on your eye health or book an appointment, contact your practice here today.