Winter Eye Problems & How to Prevent Them

As temperatures drop and the air turns crisp, many people start to notice changes in their eyes. The cold, dry air and indoor heating can wreak havoc on eye health, leading to discomfort and irritation. Understanding common winter eye problems and how to prevent them can help you protect your vision all season long.

Dry Eyes

One of the most common winter eye issues is dryness. The cold outdoor air combined with heated indoor environments can strip away the natural moisture your eyes need to stay comfortable. This often leads to itching, redness, burning, or a gritty sensation. If these symptoms persist, it may indicate a chronic condition that requires professional dry eye treatment in Turnersville.

Light Sensitivity

Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, increasing your exposure to harmful sunlight even on cloudy days. Without proper protection, this can cause photokeratitis - essentially a sunburn on the eye.

Eye Strain

Shorter daylight hours mean more time spent indoors on digital devices. The combination of dry indoor air and increased screen time can lead to eye fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision.

How to Protect Your Eyes This Winter

•           Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your eyes and the rest of your body hydrated.

•           Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to your indoor air can reduce dryness and irritation. This is especially helpful if you use heating systems regularly.

•           Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: Even during winter, UV rays can damage your eyes. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to protect your vision from snow glare and sunlight.

Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam

An annual comprehensive eye exam in Turnersville ensures your eyes are healthy and helps detect early signs of dryness, strain, or other conditions that may worsen during winter. These exams allow your eye doctor to evaluate the overall health of your eyes, including the tear film, corneal surface, and eyelid function - key areas often affected by cold, dry air.

During your visit, your eye doctor in Turnersville, NJ can also check for underlying issues such as meibomian gland dysfunction or allergies that may be contributing to seasonal dryness. If necessary, they can recommend targeted dry eye treatment in Turnersville, ranging from medicated eye drops and in-office therapies to lifestyle adjustments designed to restore moisture balance and comfort.

Experience Clear, Comfortable Vision All Season Long

Winter may bring cozy nights and festive charm, but it can also take a toll on your eyes. From dryness and irritation to increased light sensitivity, seasonal changes can make maintaining healthy vision a challenge. Fortunately, small preventive steps and seeking professional eye care can make a big difference.
 

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at Family Eye Associates to keep your vision clear through every season. Visit our office in Tunersville, New Jersey, or call (856) 227-0720 to book an appointment today.