As winter arrives, ensuring our body stays warm becomes a primary focus to avoid catching a cough, cold, or fever. However, it’s equally important to prioritize the well-being of our eyes. The winter season, with its cold air and indoor heating systems, can significantly impact ocular health. The combination of these factors can contribute to various eye issues such as dryness, redness, allergies, and infections. Neglecting these common concerns may result in discomfort and pose the risk of potential damage to our eyes. The dry and cold weather characteristic of winter can induce feelings of uneasiness and irritation, potentially leading to more severe eye infections if not addressed promptly.
Prioritizing the health of our eyes during winter is crucial for preventing potential issues and preserving optimal well-being. It’s essential to be mindful of potential vision issues that may emerge in the colder months. In the event of any eye complications, seeking advice from your ophthalmologist and obtaining the best possible treatment is always recommended. Here are some home-based best eye care tips to help prevent eye diseases during the cold and dry winter season:
- Moisturize Your Eyes: Dry eyes are common in winter due to low humidity. To combat this, avoid direct exposure to fans or air conditioners, especially in vehicles. Keep the doors and windows closed at home to prevent direct contact with the cold wind.
- Maintain Good Eye Hygiene: Prevent eye infections by practicing good hygiene. Regularly wash your hands to prevent the spread of germs, avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands, and refrain from sharing personal eyecare items to minimize infection risks.
- Take Breaks: This is probably the most commonly advised retinal eye care tip to reduce strain. Take regular breaks in between work to rest your eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain: every 20 minutes, shift focus to something 20 feet away for a refreshing 20 seconds. Take breaks to relax your eyes, blink, and ensure equal tear distribution.
- Use a Humidifier: Combat dry indoor air by using a humidifier, especially in bedrooms or living spaces. This helps maintain optimal air moisture and promote eye comfort. Using a humidifier at home or the workplace will keep your eyes and body moist.
- Wear Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from the harmful UV radiation by wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection. This is crucial for protection against Photo-keratitis and Solar Retinopathy. Wearing glasses and helmets with an anti-reflective coating will also help at night.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: One of the primary steps to optimum retinal eye care, youesist the urge to rub your eyes, especially when they are dry and sensitive. Rubbing can cause redness, irritation, and potentially spread germs, leading to infections. Instead, use a warm compress or artificial tears if needed.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking ample water is crucial to maintain overall body moisture, including the eyes. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily to stay hydrated and reduce the risk of dry eyes. Drink 2-3 liters of water in winter to keep hydration at a normal level.
Eye care is paramount regardless of the season. Make it a priority to schedule regular eye exams to ensure your vision stays sharp and healthy. Boost your eye health by incorporating nutrient-rich leafy greens such as spinach, broccoli, or kale into your diet. A proper diet is the best eye care remedy and can help our overall health in the long run. These green powerhouses provide essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to optimal eye function. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight is not only beneficial for your overall well-being but also plays a crucial role in supporting good eye health. Embrace these practices consistently, and your eyes will thank you with clear vision and vitality throughout the year.
Dr. Sri Ganesh, Chairman and Managing Director, Nethradhama Super Specialty Eye Hospital, Bangalore