28 Dec The Effect Of Winter On Contact Lenses
Winter is a magical time of year, with snow-covered landscapes, cozy fires, and festive celebrations. But for contact lens wearers, the cold months can present unique challenges that affect eye comfort and vision clarity. The combination of dry indoor air, chilly outdoor temperatures, and harsh wind can all take a toll on the delicate balance needed for comfortable contact lens wear. Whether you’re navigating the winter chill on your way to work or enjoying some outdoor activities, it’s essential to take extra steps to protect your eyes and keep your lenses comfortable throughout the season. Here’s how to manage the effects of winter on your contact lenses and ensure your eyes stay healthy and irritation-free.
Why Winter Can Be Tough On Contact Lenses
The winter season is often accompanied by dry air, both indoors and outdoors, which can cause your eyes to become dehydrated. This dehydration can result in uncomfortable symptoms like dryness, itching, burning, and redness, especially if you wear contact lenses. Here’s why:
1. Cold Outdoor Air: Cold temperatures can dry out the air, and combined with low humidity, they can lead to moisture being drawn out of your eyes and lenses. This is particularly noticeable when you’re outside for extended periods or in windy conditions.
2. Indoor Heating: When you step inside to escape the chill, the warmth from indoor heating systems often dries the air even further. This can lead to rapid evaporation of moisture from your eyes, making your contact lenses feel dry and uncomfortable.
3. Increased Exposure to Wind: Winter winds are harsh on your skin, but they can also irritate your eyes. Wind can cause your lenses to dry out more quickly, leading to discomfort. If you’re involved in outdoor activities like skiing or snowboarding, the wind can become even more problematic.
4. Changes in Air Quality: Winter air tends to have higher levels of pollutants due to the increased use of heating systems, which can irritate sensitive eyes. In addition, spending more time in environments with less natural ventilation can lead to stale, dry air that exacerbates dryness in the eyes.
5. Reduced Blink Rate: In cold weather, people tend to blink less frequently, either because they’re focused on staying warm or protecting their face from the cold. This can reduce the amount of moisture your eyes naturally produce, which can leave your lenses feeling dry and uncomfortable.
How To Keep Your Lenses Comfortable During Winter
Fortunately, there are several simple but effective strategies to keep your contact lenses comfortable, no matter how harsh the winter elements may be.
1. Keep Your Lenses Hydrated
One of the most effective ways to prevent dryness is to keep your lenses well-hydrated. Here are a few tips to help maintain moisture throughout the day:
- Use a Moisturizing Solution: Make sure to use a high-quality contact lens solution designed to hydrate and lubricate your lenses. Consider using a solution that contains rewetting drops to keep your lenses moist throughout the day.
- Opt for Silicone Hydrogel Lenses: If you wear traditional hydrogel lenses, you may want to consider switching to silicone hydrogel lenses. These lenses allow more oxygen to reach your eyes and tend to be more comfortable in dry conditions, including winter.
- Add Rewetting Drops: Carry a small bottle of rewetting drops in your bag, especially if you’re going to be outside for an extended period. Just a few drops can keep your lenses from feeling dry or uncomfortable.
2. Use A Humidifier Indoors
The dry indoor air caused by heating systems can exacerbate lens dryness, making your eyes feel itchy and irritated. Adding a humidifier to your home or office can help restore moisture to the air and reduce the evaporation of tears from your eyes. This can make a big difference in how comfortable your lenses feel.
- Position Your Humidifier Properly: Place the humidifier near your work desk or bedroom to maintain optimal humidity levels in areas where you spend the most time.
3. Take Frequent Breaks And Blink More Often
Blinking is essential for spreading moisture across your eyes and keeping your lenses hydrated. During the winter months, when the air is dry and you’re more likely to focus on screens or keeping warm, you may blink less frequently. Try these techniques to ensure your eyes stay moisturized:
- Practice the 20-20-20 Rule: If you spend a lot of time looking at digital screens, remember to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to encourage blinking and help reduce eye strain.
- Blink Purposefully: Make a conscious effort to blink fully and frequently throughout the day, especially when you’re working or reading.
4. Wear Protective Eyewear Outdoors
Winter winds can be harsh, causing your eyes to tear up and dry out quickly, especially if you’re skiing, snowboarding, or spending time outdoors in cold, windy conditions. To protect your eyes:
- Wear Wraparound Sunglasses or Goggles: These will help shield your eyes from the wind and protect your lenses from drying out. Choose goggles with UV protection if you’re engaging in winter sports to also protect your eyes from snow glare and UV radiation.
- Use Anti-Fog Lenses or Spray: If you wear glasses over your contacts or goggles, make sure they have an anti-fog coating or use an anti-fog spray to prevent moisture buildup on your lenses.
Consider Switching To Daily Lenses
If you find that your contacts are uncomfortable in the winter, consider switching to daily disposable lenses. Because you’re using a fresh pair every day, you can avoid the buildup of debris and proteins that can contribute to dryness or irritation. Dailies are also more breathable, which is particularly helpful in winter when your eyes need extra hydration.
6. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
While it’s tempting to rub your eyes when they feel itchy or irritated, doing so can cause damage to your contact lenses and increase the risk of infection. Instead, use lubricating drops or remove your lenses for a break if your eyes become too irritated.
7. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining hydration levels throughout your body, including your eyes. Dehydration can exacerbate dryness in your eyes and make contact lenses feel uncomfortable. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day and consider eating water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables to keep your body—and your eyes—hydrated.
Conclusion
Winter may be a challenging season for contact lens wearers, but with a few simple adjustments, you can keep your eyes comfortable and healthy throughout the colder months.
While temporary discomfort from dry eyes or lens irritation is common in colder weather, persistent issues can affect your vision and quality of life.
If you’re experiencing ongoing discomfort, dryness, or other eye-related problems, it’s important to consult an eye care professional. At Dr. D’Orio Eyecare, we’re here to help you maintain optimal eye health. Book an appointment today by visiting website or call us at 416-656-2020 for our Toronto location, or 416-661-5555 for our North York location. Keep your eyes comfortable and protected this winter with expert care from our team!
