Looking After Your Eyes This Winter

The colder months can be challenging for eye health in ways many people don't realise. As temperatures drop and central heating kicks in, the conditions that affect our eyes change significantly. For those who spend more time indoors during winter, understanding how to protect your vision becomes particularly important.

Indoor heating, while keeping us warm, dramatically reduces humidity levels. This dry air can lead to uncomfortable symptoms including itchy, gritty-feeling eyes and excessive watering. Paradoxically, very watery eyes are often a sign of dryness. When the surface of the eye becomes too dry, it triggers an overproduction of tears as a protective response.

Staying well hydrated helps maintain the moisture your eyes need. While reaching for hot drinks is natural when it's cold outside, remember that caffeinated beverages can contribute to dehydration. Balancing your tea and coffee with plenty of water makes a noticeable difference. Some people find using a humidifier in rooms where they spend the most time helps maintain comfortable moisture levels.

Winter light may seem less intense than summer sunshine, but UV exposure remains a concern. Snow and frost can reflect sunlight, and low winter sun sits at just the right angle to cause glare. If you're outdoors, particularly when it's bright and frosty, sunglasses provide valuable protection.

For those who find it difficult to get out during the darker, colder months, keeping up with regular eye examinations might feel like a challenge. This is precisely why home eye tests exist. At Atlantic Home Eyecare, we bring comprehensive eye examinations to you, so winter weather needn't mean neglecting your eye health. Our optometrists cover areas throughout Devon, Somerset, Cornwall, Bristol, Gloucestershire and beyond, bringing professional care directly to your home.

If you've noticed changes in your vision, or it's been a while since your last eye test, don't wait until spring. Many eye conditions develop gradually and without obvious symptoms. Regular checks are the best way to catch problems early when they're most treatable.

Your eyes work hard all year round. Give them a little extra care this winter.