Although many parents main concern during the winter is keeping your kids bundled up and warm, you should also remember to pay attention to your kids’ eyes, as well as your own. The cold, dry air that comes with winter can certain affect how our eyes feel, not to mention there is still a risk of UV damage if eyes are not protected from the sun.
Whether spending time indoors or out this winter, below are some useful tips to keep your family’s eyes safe and healthy however you choose to enjoy this season.
Keep your eyes moist
If you have a heater running or you are burning a fire in your fireplace, you may feel a dryness in the eyes, especially if you already suffer from chronic dry eye. Winter winds can also cause dryness and discomfort. Your Sight Matters advises to keep your eyes moist by remaining at a distance from the heat source and, if necessary, by using artificial tears or a humidifier.
Use UV protection
Exposure to UV rays during the winter is just as serious as in the summer with problems ranging from temporary damage to permanent cataracts, Women Fitness warns. When you head outdoors in the winter, always don a pair of sunglasses with proper UV protection, Ilumin recommends. UV protection for the eyes is especially important when there is fresh snow of the ground causing glare. Be sure to choose sunglasses that are not so dark that they obscure your vision or your child’s vision.
Wash your hands frequently
Superior Vision reminds that washing your hands often will help prevent the spread of conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye) and other eye-related illnesses. Younger kids may need reminders, so be sure to remind them to wash their hands after using the restroom, sneezing, coughing, etc.
Avoid touching your eyes
It is especially important to refrain from touching your eyes and face after contact with other pens, phones, money, and people’s hands, Eye Advisory recommends.
Eat foods that support eye health
Eye Advisory also suggests adding foods into your family’s diet for that support eye health. These include:
- Cold water fish such as sardines, mackerel, and tuna
- Soy
- Vegetables including garlic, onions, capers, shallots, and green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale
- Eggs
- Virgin olive oil
- Fruits including grapes, blueberries, and other berries
- Nuts and grains
Good eye care habits matter regardless of the season, it just takes a few minor adjustments when winter rolls around! If your family hasn’t yet, put these tips into practice now! Here’s to a healthy winter season!
Remember that you can find sunglasses for your kids through Real Kids Shades. Check out our stylish options that offer 100% protection from UV rays today!
It’s interesting to know that eating foods like sardines and tuna will help to support eye health. My husband and I are thinking about how to prevent vision problems during the winter, and we are looking for advice. I will let him know about your recommendations to help us to prevent eye vision problems.
Thanks for sharing this useful information. I have noted all tips.