Six Tips to Take Care of Your Vision in Winter
During winter, our eyes face different factors that can affect their well-being. Knowing the most common causes and how to prevent them is key to maintaining good eye health.
Cold air and wind
Cause: Cold air and wind irritate the ocular surface, causing tearing, redness, and a foreign body sensation.
Tip: Protect your eyes with sunglasses or wraparound glasses when outdoors, especially on windy days.
Colds, flu, and allergies
Cause: Respiratory infections can cause itching, tearing, and ocular inflammation.
Tip: Avoid touching your eyes, maintain good hand hygiene, and consult a specialist if persistent symptoms appear.
Heating and dry environments
Cause: Heating reduces environmental humidity and promotes ocular dryness.
Tip: Maintain good hydration, avoid direct air on your eyes, and use artificial tears if you notice dryness or stinging.
Reflected solar radiation
Cause: UV radiation is still present in winter and is intensified by the snow’s reflection or light-colored surfaces.
Tip: Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection all year round, even on cloudy days.
Prolonged screen use
Cause: In winter we spend more time indoors, which increases screen exposure and reduces natural blinking.
Tip: Apply the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 6 meters away for at least 20 seconds.
Sudden temperature changes
Cause: Moving from outdoor cold to highly heated spaces generates ocular stress.
Tip: Allow your eyes to adapt gradually and maintain proper ocular lubrication.
Reduced exposure to natural light
Cause: Fewer hours of sunlight can increase visual fatigue.
Tip: Take advantage of natural light whenever possible and ensure proper lighting in indoor spaces.
Conclusion, Protect your eyes in winter.
Winter can affect our eye health more than we think. Adopting small daily habits and protecting our eyes properly helps prevent discomfort and maintain healthy vision during the colder months.
Authors:
Dr. Francisco Gosálbez – Eye Doctor – Oculofacial Aesthetics Specialist VISIONKER – Torrevieja (Alicante)
Sandra Manzaneque – Optometrist at VISIONKER – Vega Baja (Alicante)
Irene Carretero – Optometrist at VISIONKER Eye Clinic – Guardamar del Segura (Alicante)
