Winter Eyecare 101: Expert Shares 5 Essential Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy During Winter

Winter, characterised by a decline in temperature and humidity, poses challenges to both the skin and eyes. The dryness associated with this season can adversely affect the human skin and eyes, leading to a lack of moisture. This deficiency commonly manifests as eye irritation, redness, and a potential decline in vision quality. Dr. Sri Ganesh, Chairman and Managing Director, Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Bangalore, provides five essential tips for winter eyecare: using UV protection glasses to shield eyes from the harsh winter sun.

The reduction in moisture levels during the winter accelerates the evaporation of tears, contributing to discomfort. Additionally, the cold winds prevalent in winter often bring about sensations such as eye pain and blurred vision. These adverse effects highlight the importance of adopting measures to address dryness and maintain optimal eye health during the winter months.

5 tips to keep your eyes healthy during the winter:

1. Shield your eyes from the winter sun.The misconception that the winter sun is less harmful often leads people to skip protective measures like sunglasses. Dr. Sri Ganesh emphasises that the winter sun can be as harsh as its summer counterpart. Prolonged exposure without proper protection can result in eye irritation, redness, and diminished vision quality. To counteract this, he recommends wearing UV-protection glasses. This simple yet crucial step significantly reduces the risk of eye discomfort and contributes to maintaining optimal eye health.
2. Combat Dryness with Moisturization:Winter’s dry air robs the eyes of essential moisture, causing dryness and irritation. This can lead to watering of the eyes and overall discomfort. Dr. Sri Ganesh advises incorporating lubricating eye drops into your routine to keep your eyes moisturised. Additionally, using a humidifier in your living or working space helps combat the dryness in the air, providing relief and maintaining hydration for your eyes.
3. Nourish Your Eyes with a Healthy Diet:The winter season offers a bounty of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables. Dr. Sri Ganesh recommends including foods like broccoli, cauliflower, guava, amla, and carrots in your diet. These winter wonders are rich in vitamins A and C, beta-carotene, and lutein—essential components for maintaining good eye health. A well-balanced diet contributes significantly to the overall well-being of your eyes.
4. Hydrate Your Body, Hydrate Your Eyes:The dry winter air not only affects the skin but can also lead to dehydration in the body. Insufficient hydration can result in dry, blurry vision and a gritty feeling in the eyes. To counteract these effects, Dr. Sri Ganesh stresses the importance of staying well-hydrated by drinking 6–8 glasses of water daily. Proper hydration is a fundamental aspect of preserving eye health during the winter months.
5. Schedule a Visit to Your Ophthalmologist:Winter weather, coupled with an increased prevalence of viruses, can sometimes mimic the symptoms of common infections. People may mistake redness and watering of the eyes for a regular cold. Dr. Sri Ganesh underscores the significance of timely intervention by visiting your ophthalmologist. Early detection and treatment can prevent potential complications arising from untreated eye infections, ensuring the continued health of your eyes.In summary, the winter season, marked by its dry and cold conditions, presents significant challenges to the well-being of our skin and eyes due to a noticeable lack of moisture. The ensuing dryness may result in eye irritation, redness, and a potential decline in vision quality. However, by integrating recommended practices into your winter routine, you can nurture healthier eyes and effectively navigate the challenges brought about by the seasonal weather changes. Prioritising eye care during the winter ensures a more comfortable and clear-eyed experience, despite the environmental conditions.