Top 4 Winter Eye Care Tips – How to Protect Your Eyes this Winter

Many people don’t realize that winter can be hard on the eyes, because the harsh UV rays and dry winds can be damaging. That’s why it’s so important to pull out your sunglasses, before facing the bright sunlight that follows a snowy day. The sun may be less intense during the winter, but be sure to pay close attention to winter eye care tips, so that you know how to protect your eyes this winter.

Although the glint of the sun off the snow or ice can be a beautiful spectacle, those bright rays can contribute to the formation of cataracts, or problems with the retina later on. So don’t forget to take care of your eyes during the winter, whether you are indoors or outdoors. Here are a few tips to remember:

• Wear eyeglasses that protect your eyes from up to 99% of the UV-A and UV-B radiation. If you don’t have eyeglasses, then ski goggles with UV protection are a good option. Ski goggles will also prevent the snow from blowing in the eyes.

• Wearing a brimmed hat or hooded jacket will give added sun protection, and also block the eyes from the strong winter wind.

• Keep your eyes moist by using eyedrops. The harsh, cold winds can make your eyes dry, and indoor heating can also cause eye irritation, but eyedrops can help to relieve itchiness and dryness.

• Installing humidifiers throughout the house will help to increase humidity levels.

Winter weather can be hazardous for the eyes, so don’t ignore these winter eye care tips. If you need more information on how to protect your eyes this winter, then contact the Center for Ophthalmology and Laser Surgery in Lighthouse Point, FL. The Center is headed by board certified ophthalmologist Michael Loeffler, MD. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Loeffler by visiting http://www.oculaser.com/.