How Winter Weather Impacts the Eyes

Updated: Jan 21, 2023

Winter brings the most beautiful, cozy, festive time of the year. It's lovely to curl up by the fireplace with a warm cup of hot chocolate and watch the snow falling outside. However, cold and icy temperatures can wreak havoc on our eyes. The winter air can leave us uncomfortable and itchy, from dry eye to redness and irritation. And eye care is the most important thing to remember this time of year. In this post, we'll explore how winter weather can impact your eyes and what you can do to help protect them.

The Effects of Cold Weather on the Eyes

As the temperature drops and the air becomes dryer, you may experience various eye-related symptoms. These can include:

Dry Eyes

Winter means we are constantly exposed to low-humidity air outdoors and indoors. This dry air can cause our tear film to evaporate quickly, leading to dry eyes and irritation. To treat this condition, you should use an artificial tear solution to replenish the moisture and lubrication in your eyes, drink plenty of water, and take breaks from focusing on screens.

Excess Tearing

Cold air - particularly windy conditions - can cause the eye's tear glands to overproduce tears to protect the eyes from further irritation. Excess tearing can blur your vision and make it difficult to focus, so you should use a lubricating eye drop or ointment to help restore moisture levels and provide a protective barrier for your eyes.

Also, if you notice your eyes watering when spending time outside or even when a gust of wind hits your face, wear sunglasses or goggles to keep them safe from debris or allergens in the air. If you can't figure out why your watery eyes or if home remedies don't work, especially if it affects your vision, consult an optometrist.

Corneal Freeze

The wind can freeze your cornea if you go for a long hike in cold winter weather. This happens because your cornea is naturally cooler than the rest of your body. The cornea, the cool, watery eye surface, can freeze more quickly than other parts of your body because it's constantly exposed to the elements. With a corneal freeze, your vision may blur, or you might lose sight entirely. Fortunately, a corneal freeze can be quickly reversed by returning to a warmer environment. You may also need to rehydrate your eyes with artificial tears.

Light Sensitivity

When the winter sky appears dark, it's easy to feel down. However, did you know that snowfall and ice create extra reflective surfaces that help increase the amount of light? People with sensitive eyes may blink more, feel discomfort, and have other symptoms when exposed to bright light in winter. To manage this, wear sunglasses with UV protection and avoid looking directly at bright lights.

Snow Blindness (Photokeratitis)

Snow blindness, also called photokeratitis, happens when you're exposed to too much UV light from the sun reflecting off the snow. Excess ultraviolet contact can irritate the nerves in your cornea, leading to light sensitivity and a burning sensation.

To avoid photokeratitis, wear snow goggles if you're going to be in the snow for an extended period. If you experience snow blindness, remove your contact lenses, clear any reflective surfaces, and use a cold compress or an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory to numb the pain.

Redness

Harsh winter winds can cause your eyes to become red and inflamed. Eyelid swelling and discoloration of the eye are potential side effects. You may also experience eyelid spasms or involuntary tics if your eyes become irritated.

Dry eye, seasonal allergies, or snow blindness could cause redness in your eyes. For reduced inflammation and discomfort in your eyes, apply a cool compress, such as a damp cloth, and take an over-the-counter pain medication. If the symptoms do not go away, visit an eye doctor to learn more about the cause of the irritation.

Final Verdict

Winter can be a difficult season for your eyes, with conditions ranging from dryness and redness to snow blindness. To keep your eyes healthy and comfortable this winter, wear sunglasses or goggles outdoors, keep your eyes hydrated with artificial tears, and consult an optometrist if your symptoms persist. You can also try to avoid bright lights and clear reflective surfaces. These eye care tips and tricks can help keep your eyes happy this season.