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The arrival of winter is marked by a sharp drop in temperatures, which very often can cause infections and discomfort for our eyes. Adverse weather conditions, in fact, can irritate them, generating various disorders such as conjunctivitis, excessive tearing, and dry eyes. In some cases, sudden temperature changes lead to the rupture of the eye’s superficial blood vessels, resulting in subconjunctival hemorrhage.
Dry eyes that water
Excessive tearing is a very bothersome eye condition for many people, which can worsen during the cold season and often conceals various forms of dry eye. In winter, the excessive use of heating in homes or commercial spaces makes the air dry and low in humidity, causing tears to evaporate more quickly: the eyes become dry, creating a sensation of a foreign body, which in turn triggers reflex tearing. Electronic devices can act similarly: prolonged use can reduce the frequency of blinking, causing tears to evaporate quickly and the eyes to dry out.
Eyes irritated by cold
Low winter temperatures are frequently associated not only with an increase in upper respiratory tract infections, but also with greater irritation of our eyes. Often, cold wind can hit the eyes directly, irritating the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that covers part of the eyeball. This causes eye redness, which is in most cases accompanied by tearing and photophobia. Sometimes, these symptoms may also occur as a side effect of non-ocular conditions such as rhinitis and pharyngitis, which are even more common in winter. Cold wind reaching our eyes can stimulate annoying tearing, and in such cases, using protective glasses can help shield the eyes from the icy air that may carry harmful infectious agents.
Cold-induced hemorrhages
Harsh winter temperatures can sometimes cause trauma to our eyes. In winter, we often go from cold environments to warm, cozy interiors, or vice versa. These temperature fluctuations can cause the rupture of superficial capillaries, resulting in a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This condition can cause fear and anxiety in those affected; however, it is usually a painless and harmless ocular manifestation: the blood will typically reabsorb within a few days without damaging vision.
Subconjunctival hemorrhage can also be caused by other factors such as the use of specific medications (e.g., anticoagulants), capillary fragility, excessive or sudden effort, or it may be a sign of systemic conditions like high blood pressure. For this reason, it is always advisable to consult your trusted ophthalmologist, especially if such hemorrhages occur frequently.
Useful tips to protect your eyes
Use artificial tears:
These compounds help rehydrate the ocular surface, reducing eye symptoms. It is important to administer these eye drops at least twice a day, every day, to notice a decrease in dry eye symptoms. In some cases, the ophthalmologist may also recommend Pulsed Light Treatment (IRPL) to more effectively treat certain forms of dry eye.
Protect your eyes in the mountains:
At high altitudes, UV rays are stronger and therefore more harmful. For this reason, it is absolutely necessary to use lenses with certified UV filters when outdoors. Choosing good sunglasses with protective UV lenses can make all the difference.
Humidify indoor environments:
Keeping the humidity level between 40% and 60% helps prevent irritation of the oral and respiratory mucosa and prevents dry eyes. Similarly, it is important not to forget to drink water regularly to maintain good overall hydration.
Reduce screen time:
This helps reduce eye fatigue. During computer work, it is advisable to take a break every twenty minutes and frequently rehydrate the eyes with artificial tears.
Follow a healthy diet:
Foods rich in omega-3, lutein, and vitamins A and D are essential allies for eye health.
Maintain proper eye hygiene:
Always be careful to touch your eyes only with clean, sanitized hands: hands are reservoirs of many pathogens, and direct contact with the eyes is a main cause of conjunctivitis. Similarly, keeping your glasses clean can help reduce eye infections.
Dr. Alessia Bottoni
Biotecnologa e Ortottista esperta in Dry Eye
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