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Renowned eye surgeon offers his expert opinions on how to treat winter-related eye conditions, such as dryness and infections, and preserve the best possible eye health throughout the year.
You should take special care of your eyes as well as your skin as winter draws near.
As winter approaches, the cold temperatures, dry air, and increased indoor heating can affect your eyes. While we take measures to protect our skin from the harsh season, we often neglect our eye health. Winter can lead to various eye issues, such as dryness and infections, making it crucial to adopt a special care routine. Dr. Jay Goyal, an eye surgeon and LASIK and retina specialist, as well as the director at Surya Eye Hospital in Mumbai, shares valuable advice with HT Lifestyle on maintaining eye health during the winter months, including precautions and insights on common seasonal eye conditions.
Why It Happens:
Cold temperatures and indoor heating lower humidity, leading to dryness and irritation in the eyes.
Helpful Tips for Eye Care:
- Use a humidifier to maintain moisture levels in your home.
- Lubricating eye drops or artificial tears can help keep eyes hydrated.
- Avoid direct exposure to heaters or air blowers to prevent excessive dryness.
- Remember to blink consciously when working on screens for long periods.
Important Precaution: If dryness persists, consult an eye specialist to avoid potential long-term damage from untreated dry eyes.
Why it happens: Although winter feels less sunny, UV rays can reflect off snow, intensifying glare and raising the risk of eye damage.
Helpful Tips for Eye Care:
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection, particularly when you’re in snow-covered areas or skiing.
- Choose wraparound frames to protect against wind and light coming from the sides.
Important Precaution:
Extended UV exposure can cause conditions like snow blindness or cataracts, so always wear eyewear with 100% UV protection.
Why it happens: The winter season, often linked to colds and flu, can lead to viral conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other eye infections.
Tips:
- Wash your hands regularly to minimise the spread of germs and infections.
- Avoid touching your eyes, particularly when suffering from a cold or flu.
- Thoroughly clean your contact lenses and avoid wearing them if you have an eye infection.
Precaution: If you experience redness, discharge, or discomfort in your eyes, seek medical attention immediately. Using over-the-counter drops may worsen the condition.
Why it happens: Winter allergens, like dust mites and mould, can irritate the eyes, causing redness, itching, and tearing.
Helpful Tips for Eye Care:
- Keep your living space tidy and free of dust.
- Wash bedding frequently in hot water to eliminate dust mites.
- Use anti-allergy eye drops after consulting an ophthalmologist.
Important Precaution:
Refrain from rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation and increase the risk of infection.
Why it happens: Cold weather can diminish our sense of thirst, but dehydration still occurs, leading to dry eyes.
Helpful Tips for Eye Care:
- Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to stay properly hydrated.
- Incorporate omega-3-rich foods, like fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, to promote eye health.
Important Precaution:
Limit caffeine intake, as it can contribute to dehydration, affecting both your body and eyes.
Why it happens: Extended exposure to heating systems can deplete moisture in the air, leading to dry eyes.
Helpful Tips for Eye Care:
- Use a humidifier in your room to keep the air moist.
- Place a bowl of water near the heater to help maintain air moisture levels.
Important Precaution:
Minimise time spent in heated spaces and take breaks outdoors for fresh air whenever possible.
General precautions for winter eye care
- To minimise eye strain during winter, avoid extended screen time and follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- A nutritious diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E; zinc; and lutein also plays a crucial role in supporting eye health.
- Additionally, always wear proper eye protection when participating in winter sports or outdoor activities.
- While winter offers its beauty, it also presents specific challenges for eye health.
By following these tips and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy the season without compromising your vision. If you experience discomfort or unusual symptoms, seek advice from an eye care specialist. Safeguarding your eyes today ensures long-lasting, healthy vision.