Your eyes can get dry or irritated in winter, especially if you wear contact lenses, says Dr Komal Sangoi, Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central. Cold weather, wind and indoor heating can reduce eye comfort, making it difficult for contact lens wearers to maintain moisture and clarity.
How to protect your eyes in winter when wearing contact lenses
Stay Hydrated to Prevent Dry Skin: It is important to keep your body and eyes well hydrated during the winter. Cold, dry air, especially in a heated environment, increases the risk of dehydration and dry eyes.
Protect your eyes from cold wind: Protecting your eyes from cold wind and environmental factors is important, especially in the winter when dry air and cold winds can increase the risk of dry eyes. Wearing sunglasses or goggles when outdoors not only helps protect your eyes from wind and debris, but also provides many other benefits.
Manage indoor temperature and humidity: Heating systems and fireplaces provide comfort in the winter, but they can also dry out the air in your home, making your eyes more susceptible to irritation and discomfort, says Dr. Sangoi. Dry air reduces the natural moisture in your eyes, leading to dry eyes, eye strain, or a gritty, gritty feeling.
Prioritize hygiene to prevent infection
Practicing good hygiene is essential during winter, as this season often brings a higher risk of colds and flu, which can spread to the eyes leading to conjunctivitis and styes.
According to the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, eye infections can be the result of bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms. These infections can affect the eyelids, cornea, and optic nerve. Contact lens wearers may be at higher risk for infections such as acanthamoeba keratitis.
“Avoid infection by washing your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses,” says Dr. Komal Sangoi. “Also, make sure you follow proper contact lens care practices, such as cleaning your lenses with the right solution and avoiding using water to moisten your lenses. Also, make sure your contact lens case is cleaned regularly.”
