Just as your outfits change with the seasons, so should your eye care habits. Winter weather places unique demands on your vision—for example, you may notice that cold winds cause your eyes to water. Find out what you should and shouldn't do to maintain your ocular health when temperatures drop.

Do: 

Invest in the right eyewear.

Winter still has sunny days, and the UV rays increase your risk for eye care issues like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. If you engage in winter sports like skiing, get a pair of UV-protecting goggles. They will keep out rays from the sun above and from reflecting off the snow below.

Use drops to maintain moisture.

Protective eyewear will also keep the wind from making your eyes tear up when you’re skiing or snowboarding. While you may notice sudden bouts of tears in the face of chilly winds, winter air is very dry and therefore tends to dry out your eyes. Avoid the resulting gritty feeling by using eye drops.

Don't:

Cozy up to heat sources.

It can be tempting to sit right by heating vents and radiators to stay toasty when temperatures drop. However, this will exacerbate dry eyes. Don't hover around heat sources. You can also address dry air indoors by getting a humidifier to regulate airflow and create a more comfortable environment.

Wear your contact lenses constantly.

Contacts are less comfortable in winter due to dry air. When the thin film of moisture covering the eye dries out, the contact lens edges can’t sit smoothly and scratch the surface. Opt for eyeglasses whenever possible. They also offer more protection against winter wind and snow.

If you find yourself experiencing ocular discomfort this winter, pay a visit to Joseph Van Keuren, O.D. Located in Elyria, OH, this state-of-the-art optical center is led by Dr. Keuren, a state-certified optometrist. In addition to offering glasses and contact lenses, he and his team provide treatment for various ailments from astigmatism to diabetic eye disease. Check out their full range of eye care services online. To schedule an appointment, call (440) 365-2021.