All around the country, people are bundling up and scurrying from building to building, trying to stay warm. Thankfully, we live in Florida and can avoid the worst of the problems that come along with winter. But if you’re planning on visiting family this winter, or just taking a cold weather vacation to a cooler destination, keep reading to learn how to keep your eyes healthy this winter.
Dry Eyes During Winter
If you wear contact lenses, the dry air that comes along with winter can be especially harsh. Contact lenses naturally cut down a little on our eyes’ ability to breathe, and if you have an older design your eyes could be suffering. Consider updating to a brand that allows for better breathability, or invest in some eye drops to keep your eyes moist.
If you’re really struggling, a humidifier can be a lifesaver. If you’re visiting a cold, dry place and can’t get your eyes to feel better, you can hack a humidifier, too. Let the steam from a shower travel around the house, and keep windows shut so you don’t lose the moisture. Leaving bowls of water near vents can also help add much-needed moisture to the air.
Sunglasses
If you love the outdoors, you probably already know to bring along sunglasses when you go out on the lake or go camping. But, did you know that UV protection is just as important in the winter, if not more so? Sunlight reflecting off the snow can cause more UV damage to your eyes than a normal day outside. Bring goggles or sunglasses to keep your vision sharp and your eyes healthy for years to come.
Start the New Year Right
The new year is a great time to get your appointments out of the way and set yourself up for a healthy year. If it’s been a while since you’ve seen the eye doctor, or you just feel like you’d like an update on how your eye health is, we’d love to see you.
If you’re interested in learning more or are looking for an exam, contact us at (904) 355-5555 to schedule a consultation.