5 winter eye care tips

Winter is still here, unfortunately, and it looks like it isn't going anywhere soon. As the freeze lingers on and the nights stay long, you'll need to make sure you're wrapping up warm to protect yourself from the colds and flu that inevitably come at the start of a new year.

It’s also important at this time of year to keep your eyes safe from the adverse conditions outside.   

So, with that in mind, here’s some advice about what to look out for, and how to keep your eyes feeling good. 

1. Keep hydrated

As the winds pick up, your eyes are more in danger of drying out and losing their natural moisture. This results in dry and irritated eyes, which can be very painful. The likelihood of this is also high when you’re at home, with closed windows and indoor heating having a dehydrating effect on your eyes.

To prevent the discomfort of dry eyes, make sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself, and your eyes, well-hydrated. Placing a humidifier in your home can help for when you’re staying in this winter. Eye drops are also a great option for adding a little extra moisture to your eyes and offering relief for any dry symptoms. 

2. Eat well

Maintaining a healthy diet is important at any time of the year, but can have a particularly effective benefit during the winter time. By making sure you’re getting enough nutrients and vitamins, you’ll be much better protected when colds, bugs and flu do the rounds.

And, when it comes to your eyes, getting plenty of greens, fruits, fish and other healthy foods will give your eyes a boost in fighting off dry eye syndrome, and preventing the onset of a number of visual conditions.

If you’re stuck for ideas on healthy recipes for your eyes this winter, here are just a few ideas for you.

3. Choose the right lenses

Contact lens wearers could opt for low water, breathable lenses that retain their moisture and ensure eyes are kept fresh by a welcome supply of oxygen. Popular lenses that fit this description include silicone hydrogel contact lenses, such as comfi Pure 1 Day and Dailies Total 1, however you should always speak with your optician first to see which lenses are suited to your eyes.

4. Wrap up with sunglasses

When the wind is howling and there’s a bite to the air, you may actually find it hard to keep your eyes fully open while outside. Adding extra effort to try to force your eyes open can cause some harm, and can result in your corneas freezing. If this happens, then you might find yourself experiencing blurred vision, light sensitivity and eyelid spasms, in which case a GP visit is definitely in order. 

A simple way around this is to wear sunglasses that offer UV protection for your eyes. Wrap-around styles offer the most coverage, however plenty of different styles can still give your eyes some much needed protection.

5. Prevent excessive tearing

While the effects of the cold and windy weather can lead to dry eyes for some, they can also result in excessive tearing for others. Eyes becoming extremely watery often means blurred vision, which is a hazard for a number of reasons and is very uncomfortable. 

To avoid excessive tearing altogether, sunglasses are a great option (again), to protect your eyes from harsh winds and other adverse conditions. Although, if you do find the wind is making you tear up, make sure to wipe the tears away immediately with a soft and hygienic cloth, so as to avoid the spread of any germs while you clear up your vision. 

We hope you’ve found this advice useful and that you take extra care of your eyes this winter. If you have any questions about eyes or contact lenses, our dedicated and knowledgeable customer service team at Feel Good Contacts are always happy to help.