Posts Tagged → dry eyes
I WEAR MY SUNGLASSES…IN WINTER?
Many people believe that sunglasses are exclusively a summer fashion accessory. In reality, sunglasses are made for sun, not heat, and those ultra-violet (UV) rays that shine down during warm weather are present in the winter as well. In fact, some might argue that it is even MORE important to protect your eyes from the sun and its harsh glare during the winter months.
When purchasing sunglasses, look for a high-quality, comfortable pair that completely shields your eyes and is capable of blocking 100% of UV rays. Polarized lenses can help minimize the surface glare created by water and highways, and are a good choice for those who do a lot of driving or spend time on or near the water. By reducing glare, which causes us to squint, sunglasses help prevent headaches and eyestrain.
Skiers and snowboarders should invest in a pair of quality, properly fitted goggles with polycarbonate lenses, which will protect the eyes from photo-keratitis or “snow-blindness”, a condition similar to a sunburn on the eyes which can eventually lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. Goggles will also provide a barrier from swinging branches, wayward ski poles and other hazards on the slopes.
Sunglasses also protect your eyes from wind, dust and debris, helping to prevent corneal abrasions from windblown particles, and reducing the evaporation of natural moisture.
MORE TIPS TO WINTERIZE YOUR EYES
Spending more time indoors during the winter means more exposure to forced air heating, which tends to rid the air of moisture, causing irritation and dryness in the eyes. Using a humidifier during the winter months can help keep the eyes moist. Lubricating eye drops may also help treat the symptoms of dry eyes, but talk to your eye doctor first to be sure they are right for your condition.
If you wear contact lenses, it is recommended that you use artificial tears and limit your outdoor exposure. Dry lenses can change shape and stick to the eye, becoming painful and cloudy. Drinking alcohol can make the problem worse.
Finally, a good eye cream, applied day and night, will help protect the delicate eye area from the effects of harsh weather.
What are your secrets and tips for keeping your eyes healthy during the cold winter months?
Dr. Ronald J. Martin of VisionHealth Optometry focuses on quality eye care services to family members of all ages. Services include eye exams, contact lens fittings, retinal photography, pre- and post-operative care, and glasses frames and lens selection. Dr. Martin’s office is located at 1440 Medical Center Dr. Suite2, Rohnert Park, CA 94928. He can be reached at 707-206-0290 or email him at questions@vision-health.com. Visit VisionHealth Optometry online at http://www.vision-health.com.
Dr. Martin is a member of the California Optometric Association, the American Optometric Association, the Redwood Empire Optometric Society, and the Optometry Alumni Association of the University of California.
Why Do People Develop Dry Eyes?
Many women come into the office complaining that they are having trouble seeing to drive, read or watch television. Most of them are going through menopause, but don’t know that one of the main causes of dry eye is menopause. Men also have dry eyes as they age.
What Keeps a Person from Having Dry Eyes?
The eye depends on tears to give continuous moisture and to lubricate the eye for healthy vision and comfort. Tears are made of a combination of oils for lubrication, water for moisture, mucus for even distribution, and antibodies and special proteins for infection resistance. The components are secreted from glands located around the eye. When something is out of balance, the result may be dry eyes.
