Five Tips for Protecting Your Eyes This Winter

Date: 01/13/20

Did you know harsh winter sun, cold air, and extra time spent indoors can threaten the health of your eyes? Winter weather can be especially problematic if you already have sensitive or dry eyes. Whether you are enjoying the frosty outdoors or warming up by a toasty fire, the health experts at Envolve, an integrated healthcare solutions company, have put together five tips for guarding your sight this winter.

1. Get Rid of Glare. Though you often hear how important it is to protect your eyes from the sun’s harsh rays during summer months, it is just as important to protect your sight from UV rays when the weather gets colder. In the winter, your chances of UV glare double because snow and ice can reflect the sun’s ultraviolet rays. You may not feel or notice any immediate damage, but UV exposure is cumulative and can cause long-term health problems, including cataracts and vision loss. Wear protective sunglasses or goggles when outdoors, especially if you are enjoying any winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding.

2. Have Hydration. When the weather turns colder, it is common to experience dry eyes, especially if you are already prone to this condition. Circulation of indoor or heated air can cause eyes to be painful, red, and irritated. Move further away from direct heat sources or lower the room temperature to a more moderate level. Remember to blink more, especially when using a computer or reading. Another way to increase eye hydration is to use artificial tears or a humidifier.

3. Notice Night. Driving can test your vision, especially during long dark winter nights. Roads are often wet, slippery, or icy this time of year, which can cause glare on the road, making driving more difficult. Be sure your windshield and headlights are clean to mitigate any additional problems. Blinding lights from oncoming traffic can also be a nuisance, especially in snowing conditions. If you are having difficulty with night driving and you think it might be more than the season to blame, schedule an appointment with your doctor for a routine eye exam to be sure.

4. Sample Seafood. Help your eyes this season by adding cold water fish such as salmon to your diet. They are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which help your eyes retain moisture. Another way to fight winter eye problems is by staying well hydrated. While drinking water is always the simplest way to do this, another easy way to increase liquid intake is through soothing unsweetened herbal teas, such as peppermint or ginger tea.

5. Highlight Hygiene. Before you go to bed, be sure you’ve washed your face thoroughly. Make-up residue, sweat, or germs can negatively impact your eye health if not removed daily. Don’t share make-up brushes, because this can spread viral or bacterial infections, which can make you ill and affect your eyes. It might be tempting to rub your hands over your tired, dry eyes, but this contributes to spreading unwanted bacteria or viruses to your eyes, including conjunctivitis (more commonly known as pink eye) and other common eye problems

About Envolve, Inc.®

Envolve, Inc.® is a family of health solutions, working together to make healthcare simpler, more effective and more accessible for everyone. As an agent for change in healthcare, Envolve is committed to transforming the health of the community, one person at a time. Envolve unifies specialty pharmacyPBMvisiondental24/7 nurse advice servicesdiabetes managementMSO solutions, and more. For more information, please visit our website www.envolvehealth.com or contact us at mediainquiries@envolvehealth.com.