Have you ever noticed that when the temperatures drop each winter, your eyes begin feeling dry, itchy, or irritated? If so, you’re in good company. While studies are limited, many patients with dry eye syndrome and other similar issues report that their symptoms often worsen during the winter months.
At Wide Eye Optometry in Encino, Santa Clarita, and Palmdale, California, Mary Demirjian, OD, and our team understand the link between winter weather and eye irritation. Keep reading to learn about common eye conditions that can be worsened by cooler temperatures, and find out how to keep your eyes comfortable throughout the season.
Dry, cool winter weather can affect your eyes in several ways. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common conditions we see:
During the winter, the air becomes cooler and drier, increasing your risk of dry eyes. Even in areas without much snow, small fluctuations in temperature can leave your eyes feeling itchy, burning, or irritated. Running your home’s heating system can also reduce indoor humidity, leaving your eyes red and gritty.
To reduce irritation, drink plenty of water throughout the day and keep a container of artificial tears close by. Similarly, make sure to wear glasses or other protective eyewear when stepping outside, especially if you’ll be in snowy or windy conditions. Running humidifiers in your most frequented living spaces can also help.
Upper respiratory viruses, like the common cold, influenza (flu), and COVID-19, are more prominent during the cooler parts of the year. Sometimes, these viruses also increase the risk of eye infections or conjunctivitis.
Protect yourself by getting an annual flu and COVID shot, washing your hands regularly, and avoiding high-touch surfaces whenever possible, including doorknobs, grocery cart handles, and elevator buttons.
It’s typically more cloudy and overcast during the winter, but that doesn’t mean the sun’s UV rays disappear. They can easily penetrate cloud cover and are magnified by white surfaces, such as snow and ice.
If you plan on skiing, sledding, or doing other snow-related activities, protect your vision. Wear sunglasses or protective goggles, and never look directly at the sun. It can also be helpful to carry artificial tears with you, in case you experience a bout of itching or redness.
You can’t change the weather or the lack of humidity in the air, but your eyes don’t have to suffer. To protect your eyes from dryness, infection, and UV exposure, try these simple strategies:
If you wear contact lenses, it can also be helpful to reassess the brand and style you use. For example, switching from gas-permeable lenses to more breathable ones can reduce the risk of irritation during the cold-weather months.
If the winter season affects your vision and comfort, don’t wait to request a professional eye exam. Schedule a visit at your nearest Wide Eye Optometry office in Encino, Santa Clarita, or Palmdale, California, today.