While many people think the sunny summer months are the only times that we need to protect our eyes, this is unfortunately not the case. During the winter, our eyes are exposed to extreme conditions that can also lead to serious vision problems.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your eyes during the winter, whether you are simply going about daily life or enjoying winter activities like skiing or snowboarding. Follow our tips below to help you protect your eyes this winter.
Tip #1: Stay Hydrated
During the winter months, the drier air can irritate your eyes and dry them out. Many of us also turn the heaters in our homes and vehicles on full-blast, which can cause additional dryness. It is a good idea to use the seat warmers in your car more than the heater. You can also consider using a humidifier in your home to add some moisture back into the air. In general, it is a good idea to stay hydrated, particularly during the dry winter months.
Tip #2: Wear Your Sunglasses
Sunglasses aren’t just for the summer months when the sun is intensely felt. Even in the freezing temperatures, harmful UV rays can still damage your eyes by reflecting off the snow. Be sure to wear your 100% UV-blocking, polarized sunglasses when you’re out and about.
Tip #3: Hitting the Slopes? Don’t Forget Your Goggles
As avid skiers and snowboarders know, wearing goggles isn’t a fashion statement: they’re crucial for eye safety. If you’re taking a trip to hit the slopes this winter, be sure to wear polarized, UV-blocking goggles to protect your eyes from the harsh sunlight that can be found at higher altitudes. As the elevation of a location increases, so does the sun’s intensity as it has less atmosphere to travel through. Polarized lenses will help eliminate the harmful glare from the snow, and can be crucial in protecting your eyes from the dreaded “snow blindness,” which is essentially a sunburn on your eyes.
Even if you wear prescription glasses, there are ski goggles that will fit over your glasses to provide the protection you need when you’re on the slopes.
For Your Ophthalmology Needs Call Florida Eye Specialists Today
The physicians and staff at Florida Eye Specialists are committed to protecting our patients’ sight, no matter what time of the year it might be. We know that many of our friends and neighbors are heading out of town this winter to enjoy popular winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, which is why we encourage everyone to strongly consider their eye safety during the winter months. To book an appointment with us, call (904) 564-2020 or fill out a contact form to receive a same-day call.