Here are some of the best ways to take care of your eyes this winter.
It's that time of year again. The leaves are (still) gone, daylight still quickly turns into darkness. It's cold all the time and you're suffering from dry, itchy eyes. It's important to keep your eyes moist during the winter months and to protect them from dryness and exposure to the chilly elements during an extra cold winter. Cold temperatures, dry outdoor air, and dry indoor heat can cause the eye to dehydrate which can lead to pain and swelling. Here are some ways that can help prevent your eyes from suffering.
1. Wear Sunglasses
If you're outdoors on a cold day, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the drying effects of the wind. If you plan to spend hours skiing, skating, or shoveling snow, be sure to wear sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays.
Exposure to UV light is increased in the winter due to the sun's reflection on ice or snow. This can cause inflammation to the cornea that makes the eyes red, sore, and sensitive to light.
2. Drink more fluids
Staying hydrated is key to helping your body fend off any dryness. Water and other beneficial liquids are essential to keep your organs functioning properly and rehydrating your eyes. Consider upping your liquid intake during the winter months. If you're an avid coffee drinker, try opting for green or chrysanthemum teas as they are much more beneficial for the eyes.
3. Use a Warm Washcloth
Using a warm, damp cloth compress assists with tear secretion for common dry eyes. By applying the warm washcloth to each eye for a few minutes, it can help your eyes create the moisture they need. It can also soothe scratchy, irritated, and swollen eyes and can be one of the best and quickest ways to give your dry eyes some relief.
4. Have a Humidifier
If you haven't yet, these are some of the best home items to invest in. Bringing a humidifier into your home helps combat dry indoor air that floods your home when you turn up the heat. It can also work wonders for your body and your eyes. Be sure to run your humidifier during the night especially, since that's when the time your eyes are the most vulnerable to dry conditions.
5. Eat Right
Studies found that upping your intake of omega-3 fatty acids and fish can help protect your eyes from macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome. These acids help support proper drainage of intraocular fluids so your eyes are less likely to become dry and inflamed in chilly winter weather. Research suggests that women need 91 ounces of water and men need about 125 ounces of water every day to stay hydrated. And experts agree that 20% of your daily water intake should come from the foods you eat. This can come from soups, vegetables, or fruits as all have high amounts of natural water in them, which makes them a great way to hydrate your eyes!
