Along with its beauty, winter weather can often bring eye-threatening hazards. Here are a few tips to help you avoid eye injury this season.

Avoid Excessive UV Exposure

Avoid excessive UV ray exposure. The winter sun’s powerful ultraviolet (UV) rays can harm the eyes temporarily or cause photokeratitis, like sunburning the sensitive tissues of the eyeball.

Wear Proper Eye Protection

It doesn’t matter if you’re skiing, shoveling the driveway, or just taking a walk. Protecting your eyes from the sun is a must. Make sure your eyewear indicates that it blocks 99-100% of both UV-A and UV-B rays.

Control Indoor Moisture Levels

Ensure that your indoor environment has a proper level of moisture. Humidifiers can help combat this issue. One way to tell if you’re living in conditions that are too dry is if you are experiencing excessive eye-rubbing or feel like you have low tear production.

Safeguard Against Wind

This includes the skin around the eyes. Small sunglasses that resemble something John Lennon would have worn may be cool for casual, temperate days…but not in the thick of winter! Instead, choose something that covers more surface area.

Use Sunscreen

The skin around the eyes is especially thin and vulnerable. Be sure to protect with sunscreen that has a significant SPF.

Use Eye Drops If Needed

If you suffer from dry eyes, ask your doctor about eye drops that are safe to use multiple times a day.

If you are experiencing ongoing seasonal eye problems or irritation that just won’t go away, call Vistar Eye Center  that is nearest to you and set up an appointment.