Northern states like Minnesota experience bitter cold weather during winter. Besides causing physical discomfort, this climate can affect your ocular health. Fortunately, proper eye care will help avoid vision problems. In the guide below, find out how cold weather impacts your eyes and how to protect them. 

How Cold Weather Affects Your Eyes and Vision

1. Inflammation

Cold air contains less moisture, so the combination of dry conditions, frigid temperatures, and wind often results in eye inflammation. The lids get tender, swollen, and red, and the organ can become irritated and discolored. 

To relieve the pain, take an over-the-counter painkiller, like aspirin or Tylenol®. If you experience swelling, you can reduce it by pressing the eyes with a cold compress. You can also lightly apply eye cream to the lids to keep them hydrated.

2. Dryness

Dry eye occurs when the organs do not secrete enough tears or when environmental conditions prevent adequate lubrication. As a result, the cornea and the mucous membrane become irritated, and you could experience temporary vision problems or difficulty focusing. 

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, and maintain proper moisture levels indoors with a humidifier. Applying drops or liquid tears will also reduce discomfort. When outside, practice eye care by wearing glasses or goggles to protect the organs from the wind.

3. Light Sensitivity

Some people become extra sensitive to light during the winter, partly because snow and ice reflect a lot of ultraviolet (UV) rays. This condition is known as "snow blindness" or photophobia. Typically, this problem affects people with blue, hazel, and gray eyes more frequently than those with dark ones. That's because the higher levels of melanin in brown and dark irises help protect the retina from UV radiation. You can address winter light sensitivity by wearing polarizing sunglasses while driving or outside.

For trustworthy professional eye care, visit Blue Earth Valley Eye Clinic. They offer ocular services to patients of all ages from offices in Blue Earth and Winnebago, MN. Using the latest industry equipment, they provide skilled and compassionate care, from eye exams to glaucoma or cataract treatments. Learn more about the brands of glasses they offer online website, or call (507) 526-2222 to schedule an appointment.