Most people think that is only necessary to protect their eyes from the sun during the summer. But the Sun’s influence does not diminish during the rest of the year so the eyes need to be protected during the winter too. The American Academy of Ophthalmology — the Eye M.D. Association — offers the following tips:
- Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UV light, especially when the ground is covered in snow. People forget the sun is just as bright when reflected by the snow as it is when glinting off the ocean and beach, leading to sunburned eyes. High-quality, UV-blocking sunglasses can prevent this and reduce exposure to the wind and cold. Later in life cataract formation and retina problems may occur caused by the UV light.
- While skiing or snow boarding wear ski goggles to protect your eyes. UV-light exposure increases at higher altitudes because the air is thinner and light glints off the snow, causing snow blindness. A pair of ski goggles with polycarbonate lenses, properly fitted, can block out harmful UV light. The goggles will also protect the eyes from hazards, such as tree branches and flying ski pole tips.
- Use a humidifier in the bedroom during months with low humidity. This helps moisten dry eyes, especially when exposed to forced air heating.
- Bundle up by wearing a brimmed hat, wrap around sunglasses and a hooded jacket or coat. This will help block the swirling, cold wind from the eyes and prevent the tear film covering the eyes from evaporating.
- Contact lens wearers should limit their outdoor exposure and use artificial tears frequently. Soft contact lenses, in particular, are like little sponges. They need lots of moisture. If they start to dry out, they can change shape and stick to the eye, becoming painful and cloudy. Drinking alcohol can also enhance this problem.
The academy recommends that anyone who experiences eye problems or injures should see their eye doctor as soon as possible.
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