The Effect the Cold Weather has on Our Eyes

During winter illnesses such as cold, flu and other viruses circulate more easily due to the cold weather weakening people’s defences. Your eyes are also more vulnerable during the cold weather, with a number of painful and irritating conditions to contend with when the temperatures drop.

Your eyes are very sensitive compared to other areas of the body, which is why they require some extra protection during winter. Another reason your eyes are more susceptible to conditions when the weather is colder is that there is less moisture in the air at this time of year.

Knowing more about the different conditions and how to prevent them or reduce the symptoms will help keep your eyes healthier during the colder months.

These are some of the main eye problems that flare up in cold weather:

Dry eyes

Dry eyes are a very common eye condition that occurs when your eyes lack moisture. This can be caused in a number of ways, such as being outdoors with the cold wind blowing in your eyes or it can happen when you are spending time indoors with the heating causing your eyes to lose moisture.

Watery eyes

Some people are affected by watery eyes during winter when tear glands over-produce water and this can lead to water streaming from your eyes. This can be from cold winds or can even be a symptom of dry eyes, as your tear glands react to having dry eyes. Sinus infections, allergies and viral infections may also cause watery eyes.

Eye cold (Viral Conjunctivitis)

As well as being more likely to catch a common cold with symptoms such as a sore throat and runny nose, you can also get an eye cold. During winter your vitamin D levels will reduce due to the lack of sunshine, and this will leave your immune system less capable of fighting off viruses. An eye cold is also known as viral conjunctivitis and can affect one or both eyes, usually feeling like a burning or itchy sensation and you may also get red veins in your eye.

How to protect your eyes in winter

Wearing sunglasses can help to protect your eyes from cold winds, or a humidifier will be a good investment if you are experiencing dry eyes when you are at home in a room with little moisture in the air.

Using eye drops will help to add moisture to your eyes and can refresh tired eyes but there are also some lifestyle changes you can make to boost your eye health.

Eating foods that are rich in vitamin A, Without high enough levels of vitamin A, the conjunctiva – which is normally clear – can develop a white spot called a Bitot’s spot. Vitamin A deficiency can impair night vision. A diet rich in vitamin C has been shown to reduce the risk for cataract progression.

Try not to spend too long looking at digital screens by taking regular breaks, as this can also contribute towards dry eyes and tired eyes.

Most importantly, talk to your optician, if you think you can do more to protect your eyes, your local optician will know what’s best.

Order eyewear that can protect your eyes during winter and all year round, at Glasses on Spec.