Protecting our eyes in the winter is essential for preventing short- and long-term problems.
Eye Dryness is very common during the winter, especially on cold brisk days. Seeking comfort near a warm toasty fireplace or heater can dry the eye surface. Stay hydrated and use artificial tears to control mild dry eye symptoms.
Sunglasses are important for preventing damage to the surface of the eye (keratitis) and aging effects such as cataracts, pinguecula and macular degeneration. Snow-blindness or keratitis is a painful corneal condition that can occur when the outermost layers of the cornea are damaged (much like a sunburn). Damage can occur in as little as an hour of exposure to ultraviolet radiation, the risk is intensified at higher altitude. Remember your goggles and sunglasses when you hit the slopes.
Damage to the eye doesn’t stop on the surface. Cumulative ultraviolet exposure damages the lens of the eye causing cataract formation. Research has also found that UV radiation contributes to the development of macular degeneration.
Wearing good UV blocking sunglasses protects all layers of the eye and the delicate skin around the eyes. The reflected UV radiation off of water and snow is dangerous too.
Don’t hang-up your sunglasses because it is winter, year-round UV protection is a proactive way to promote good eye health and clear vision for adults and children.