If you’re a contact lens wearer in the wintertime, you may notice it’s a period of increased dryness and discomfort for your eyes. Cold air, wind, and indoor heating all contribute to drier environments that can leave your eyes feeling irritated. Without proper care, winter conditions can make it a lot less comfortable for you to wear contact lenses less and may even impact your overall eye health.
Below, our Arlington eye care team at Arlington Vision Source goes more in-depth on how winter can affect your eyes and how taking a few simple precautions can help you maintain clear vision and all-day comfort, no matter the weather.
How Winter Air Affects Your Eyes
Winter poses several challenges for contact lens wearers, including:
- Dry Air: Cold outdoor air and indoor heating reduce humidity, leading to increased eye dryness.
- Wind Exposure: Wind can cause tear evaporation, making your eyes feel dry and irritated.
- Increased Screen Time: Shorter daylight hours often lead to more indoor activities, including extended screen use, which can reduce blink rates and make feelings of dryness worse.
- Seasonal Allergies: Some people experience winter allergies due to dust, mold, or pet dander, which can lead to irritation and discomfort while wearing contact lenses.
Tips for Comfortable Contact Lens Wear in Winter
To keep your eyes comfortable and your vision clear, try these winter contact lens care tips:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps maintain overall eye moisture. Dehydration can make dry eye symptoms worse, so be sure to stay hydrated throughout the day.
2. Use Artificial Tears
Preservative-free artificial tears can help relieve dryness caused by winter air. If you use contact lenses daily, choose eye drops that are contact lens-friendly.
3. Protect Your Eyes from Wind
Wearing sunglasses or wraparound glasses can help shield your eyes from harsh winter winds and prevent tear evaporation.
4. Limit Indoor Heating Exposure
Hot air from heating fans can dry out your eyes quickly. Using a humidifier at home or in your office can add moisture to the air and improve eye comfort.
5. Blink More Often
If you spend long hours on digital screens, make a conscious effort to blink more frequently. The 20-20-20 rule (looking away from the screen every 20 minutes for 20 seconds at something 20 feet away) can also help prevent eye strain.
6. Choose the Right Contact Lenses
Daily disposable lenses may help reduce dryness since they offer a fresh pair each day without protein buildup. If dryness persists, talk to your eye doctor about specialty lenses designed for dry eyes.
7. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
Winter allergens and dry air can make your eyes itchy, but rubbing your eyes can irritate them further and even increase the risk of infection. Instead, use lubricating eye drops or a cool compress for relief.
When to See an Eye Doctor in Arlington
If you experience persistent dryness, irritation, or discomfort despite taking precautions, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. Your eye doctor can recommend personalized solutions, such as specialized contact lenses, prescription eye drops, or lifestyle adjustments to improve comfort during winter.
At Arlington Vision Source, we offer comprehensive eye care and customized contact lens solutions to help you enjoy clear and comfortable vision all year long.
Stay Comfortable All Winter Long
With the right habits and proper eye care, you can enjoy crisp, clear vision even in the driest conditions. If you have concerns about your contact lenses this winter, schedule an appointment with our expert eye care team to find the best solutions for your needs.