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How to keep your eyes safe and your vision clear this holiday season.
When it comes to protecting our eyes and our vision from the dangers of the outdoors, many people believe that it is only during the summer months that our eyes need serious protection. While the summer sun can be brutally hot and dangerous to our delicate eyes, it’s ultraviolent rays are not any stronger than those that are emitted from the winter sun.
In fact, when it comes to protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays, the winter season may be even more dangerous for our eyes than we think. For instance, UV radiation is not only emitted from the bright blue skies above, but is also reflected from light surfaces on the ground, such as snow. When these harmful rays are reflected from both the white blanket of snow on the ground, as well as the clear blue sky above, our eyes have no escape from the harmful effects of the sun.
However, the suns UV rays are not the only thing that poses a risk for our eyes and vision during the winter season. Between the severe winds and extreme dry weather that comes with the colder months, including daily eye care education and safety into your daily routine is more important than ever.
In order to help you protect your eyes from the dangers of the winter weather, we have put together four basic eye care tips that will help you to protect your eyes from the sun this winter, as well as protect yourself from developing sunlight-related eye disorders, such as cataracts, that could seriously affect your vision in the long run.
Wear Sunglasses
The only way to protect your eyes from the permanent dangers of the suns UV rays is to wear proper protection, such as sunglasses. Wearing sunglasses that block 99-100% of UV rays, especially when the ground is covered in snow, will help you avoid sunburned eyes and temporary damage to your vision. Sunglasses also help to reduce exposure to the wind and cold, preventing the development of dry eyes.
Dress Properly
Wearing a protective brimmed hat, wraparound sunglasses or a hooded jacket or coat will not only keep your skin and face protected this winter, but it will also help to protect the tear film in your eye from evaporating. This will help to prevent extremely dry, scratchy eyes that often develop in cold, winter winds.
Increase Moisture
Because the winter weather brings along freezing cold temperatures to many parts of the country, many people tend to bring indoor heaters into their homes. However, while these devices may keep your body nice and toasty, the dry air that they produce can cause irritation and dryness in your eyes. Therefore, be sure to use a humidifier in your house during the winter months, as well as keep eye drops on hand to keep your eyes nice and moist.
Use Proper Sport Goggles
A favorite winter pastime for many outdoor enthusiasts is getting outside to ski, snowboard or snowmobile. And while these fun activities may be a great excuse to get outside and soak up the sights of the season, they also create a higher risk of developing temporary vision problems if proper protection is not used. Be sure that you are wearing a properly fitted pair of goggles with polycarbonate lenses each time you hit the slopes.
The winter season is a fun time for parents and children alike to get outside and play in the fluffy, white snow. However, it is important to remember that protecting your eyes and preserving your vision is important no matter what season it is. Follow these four simple tips to ensure healthy, strong vision for many years to come.
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