Protecting Your Eyes in the Winter

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has helped more Americans be aware of the damage UV radiation can have on their vision. Many people think that they only have to be careful about protecting their eyes during the spring and summer months. However, winter is a prime season for vision damage caused by the sun. Many believe that because wintertime is generally overcast, then they are protected from the sun. However, that’s not true. In fact, you may be hurting both your 

Most people don’t wear sunglasses in the winter. However, clouds don’t block out the sun’s UV rays. The sun’s light is also intensified by snow on the ground, as white will reflect that light straight into your eyes. Winter is a popular time for activities such as sledding, skiing, snowboarding, and playing outside. Make sure to wear goggles to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays (even if it’s overcast) as well as harsh winds and the cold that can dry out your eyes.

Winter is prime time for dry eyes and irritation, especially if you are around hot fireplaces and other areas that blow hot air. Keep eye drops on hand to keep your eyes moistened throughout the day and you can avoid irritation. Also, never look directly at snow when the sun is out, as you can blind yourself for a few seconds. If you continue looking at the snow, you may find yourself with a sunburn on your eyes at the end of the day or vision loss. This is also known as snow blindness, and it can be painful. You can avoid all of these problems and keep your eyes healthy by using eye drops and protective eyewear
 

Keeping Your Eyes Healthy

The UV radiation can lead to a myriad of eye problems that are quite serious. Some of these include cataracts, macular degeneration, photokeratitis (or temporary vision loss), and more. These problems all stem from not wearing proper eye protection! Having sunglasses seems like such a simple solution, but knowledge about eye damage is actually key. Protecting your eyes in winter is easier if you actually know that they are at risk for damage. Sunglasses can provide you all the protection you need to block out harmful UV rays, however, you don’t just want to buy any sunglasses.

You want to choose sunglasses that protect you from 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays. The sunglasses that do this will have a label on them telling you so. Many labels say they protect against “UV 400”. This means the glasses block out all harmful UV rays. There are many sunglasses out there that are “fashion” glasses and do not block out harmful rays—they only provide tinted lenses. You can only purchase proper, protective eyewear through professionals, and our office is one area that has this eyewear.
 

Eye Exams for Better Eye Health

We recommend that everyone receive an eye exam at least every two years per the recommendation of the American Optometric Association. For patients with common or complex eye conditions, they should receive an eye exam each year. This is a time to learn more about your eyes and one of the best ways to ensure your eyes are healthy. To schedule your appointment or to learn more about protecting your eyes in winter, call Peepers Optical at (844) 330-3750!