How Arizona’s Dry Winter Weather Affects Your Eyes

When the cold weather settles in, it causes more than just physical discomfort. Our skin dries out and our eyes tear up or become dry in windy weather. Cold weather causes quite a few eye conditions, including vision changes. Protect your eyes during the cold weather and make an appointment with one of our highly qualified doctors in either Mesa or Chandler if you have any concerns.

Keep reading to learn about three ways cold weather impacts your eye health.

Dry Eyes

Both inside your home and outdoors you face drier air during the colder months. When external temperatures drop into single digits and below, home and business heating systems kick in to maintain a warm atmosphere. However, internal heating systems tend to dry out the surrounding air. During these times, your eyes may struggle to maintain enough moisture.

Here are some tips for treating dry eyes in the winter:

• Artificial tears: You can purchase preservative free eye drops that keep your eyes moist and reduce grittiness and discomfort caused by dry eyes. Our highly trained eye doctors in Mesa and Chandler can recommend a brand that meets your needs.
• Humidifiers: Use a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air while the heating system runs.
• Protect your eyes: When you go outside, wear glasses or goggles to keep the wind and cold air away from your eyes.
• Drink enough fluids: Drink plenty of water to help your eyes stay hydrated.

If these measures failed to alleviate your dry eyes, it may be time to visit the eye doctor. Dry eyes often cause excessive tearing, blurry vision, itchy eyes, and other uncomfortable conditions. Make an appointment at Swagel Wootton Eye Institute to receive the appropriate treatment.

Excessive Tearing

On windy days, you may notice that your eyes tear more often than usual. This creates blurry vision.

Here are a couple of tips that may help:

• Wipe away excessive tears with a clean tissue. Avoid using your hands, which may contain dirt and germs that can irritate your eyes.
• Wear protective sunglasses outside and while skiing or participating in other cold weather sports.

Other Vision Changes

Cold weather can cause temporary vision changes. Besides dry eyes, you may experience red and swollen eyes that affect your vision. If these changes cause pain or burning, consult with one of our eye doctors in Mesa or Chandler right away.

To protect your eyes against winter vision changes, take the following precautions:

• Wear sunglasses or goggles with UV protection
• Close your eyes against the blustery winter wind
• Use eye drops to soothe irritated, dry eyes
• Drink lots of water to avoid dehydration

Contact Swagel Wootton Eye Institute Today

At Swagel Wootton Eye Institute, we are here for all your vision needs. Contact us whether you have vision issues due to cold weather or have some other problem you would like to discuss with our highly qualified eye doctors.