How you keep your eyes healthy and in perfect condition may differ depending on the season. There are things that you do during summer to protect your eyes that may not be that practical during winter or vice versa.
But no matter what the season is, it is vital that you protect your eyes to maintain or even improve your vision. Here are practical tips from Ottawa optometrist on how to keep your eyes healthy throughout the seasons:
Winter:
During winter, most people turn on their heaters at home. The heat from a heater or fireplace can lead to eye dryness. This situation can bring discomfort or pain especially if you are already suffering from a chronic eye condition like dry eyes. This is when the eyes are not properly lubricated because they do not produce the right amount of tears needed to keep the eyes moist. During winter, this condition can get worse. What you can do is keep your eyes moist by staying away from the heater or using a humidifier. If you visit Ottawa eye clinic, the eye doctor can also prescribe medication to keep your eyes moist.
It is a good idea to wear sunglasses during winter. Why? Because your eyes can get damaged if the temperature is too low. Make sure that your sunglasses has UV protection because the snow can reflect UV rays which doubles the risk.
To avoid snow and ice debris from entering your eyes, especially if the weather condition is not favourable, you should consider wearing goggles. Googles provide maximum protection compared to regular eyeglasses.
Spring:
Spring is the season for allergies. This can cause eye irritations including redness and itchiness. While you can take anti-allergy medications, it is best to consult an eye doctor and get an eye exam in case your eyes become irritated because of your allergy.
If you are engaging in spring cleaning, make sure to use goggles to avoid the dust from entering your eyes.
Even during spring time, the sun’s UV rays can still pose risks so it is still advisable to wear sunglasses with UV protection. This will help you avoid eye problems like cataract and macular degeneration.
Summer:
Same with other seasons, summer is the time when you put your sunglasses to good use. Don’t let the harmful rays of the sun damage your eyes. The brightness of the day can also be very painful for your naked eyes.
Summer is the perfect time to hit the beach. Don’t forget to wear your swim goggles whether you are going to the beach or pool. Saltwater can be damaging to your eyes especially if you accidentally open your eyes while underwater. The bleach on pool water can also cause eye irritations.
For outdoor activities, make sure to use eye protection. The dust and heat from outside can both cause eye damage. Also wear a hat outside as added protection from UV rays and heat of the sun.
Fall:
Throughout the year, you will need your sunglasses. Even if you feel you don’t need it during the fall season, you still do because there is still the risk of the UV rays. Make sure to wash your hands frequently to avoid causing any bacteria to enter your eyes when you happen to touch them.
Fall is also the season of allergies, just like the spring season. Always keep an anti-allergy medication and eye drop ready in case of allergy. It is best to consult your Ottawa optometrist for eye medications that can help relieve or prevent allergy symptoms.
Winter, spring, summer, or fall – no matter what’s the season, you should always protect your eyes. These tips will ensure that you will have good eye health throughout the year.