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During the winter months, all different types of concerns arise. Many people get sick, skin dryness becomes a prevalent problem, and more. Your eyes are affected by winter weather, too. From dryness to excessive watering and more, there are all sorts of different common eye problems in winter. Fortunately, most can be helped.
Here’s what you need to know about some of the most common eye problems in winter, as well as what you can do to help with each issue.
#1. Snow Blindness
Also known as photokeratitis, snow blindness occurs when your eyes have been exposed to too much UV light. Basically, snow blindness is a sunburn on your eyes. You know how light reflects off of snow and can temporarily blind you? Snow blindness is when the UV rays from that glare damage your eyes.
Some of the symptoms of snow blindness include:
- Eye pain
- Watering
- Swelling eyes
- Twitching eyelids
- Seeing halos around lights
- Pain in bright light
- And more
In spite of the name, snow blindness doesn’t just happen during the winter. It can also occur anywhere there is bright sunlight, such as on a beach.
How You Can Help It
Usually, snow blindness doesn’t cause permanent damage. It typically goes away within a few days. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to see a doctor.
There are some things you can do to both prevent snow blindness and treat it.
- Take out your contacts and opt for glasses.
- Wear sunglasses outside.
- Use eye drops to protect the surface of your eyes.
- Take painkillers as needed.
- Stay out of the sun.
- Talk to your doctor.
#2. Dry Eyes
During the winter, humidity levels in the air drop. Snowstorms bring winds that can dry out your eyes. Indoor heating reduces the amount of moisture in the air. With less moisture in the air, both inside and outside, dry eyes is among the most common eye problems in winter.
Some symptoms of dry eyes include:
- Itching
- Redness
- Burning
- Stickiness
- Feeling like there’s something in your eye
If you already have dry eyes, this condition can be exacerbated by winter weather.
How You Can Help It
If you suffer from dry eyes, there are several things you can do to help. It’s always a good idea to talk to your eye doctor, especially if none of the following measures provide relief, as they will be able to provide you with expert medical advice specific to you.
- Opt for glasses instead of contact lenses.
- Try to wear your contacts less.
- Use humidifiers inside.
- Wear sunglasses outside.
- Use artificial tears.
- Lower the temperature of your thermostat, if you can.
#3. Watery Eyes
On the opposite end of the spectrum, another one of the common eye problems in winter is watery eyes. While some people find that winter weather dries their eyes out, others find that their eyes produce an excessive amount of tears in an effort to stay protected. Like dry eyes, watery eyes result from decreased levels of moisture in the air.
Symptoms of watery eyes include:
- Excessive watering, of course.
- Infection, from using dirty clothes to wipe away tears
- Blocked tear ducts
- Blurry vision
How You Can Help It
Many people find that their watery eyes stop being a problem once they go inside. Wearing glasses or sunglasses can reduce the likelihood of tearing.
However, sometimes people need treatment in order to find relief. Consult with your doctor in order to determine the best course of action for you, personally.
Some of the treatment options for watery eyes include:
- Medications.
- Removal of foreign objects.
- Opening blocked tear ducts.
- Eyelid repair, in extreme cases where your eyelid is sagging
If your watery eyes don’t go away and cause you pain and impact your ability to see clearly, you should contact your eye doctor.
Prescription Glasses, Sunglasses, And More To Protect Your Eye Health This Winter
Wolcott Optical can help you protect your eyes from these common eye problems in winter with our quality eyewear. If you love going outside and getting the most out of the snow, you may benefit from prescription sunglasses or prescription safety glasses. If you want to be able to alternate between contact lenses and glasses, we carry a wide selection of many different frames so that you can select a pair that suit you.
To learn more about our eyewear and how it can protect you from common eye problems in winter, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!
