Winter cold doesn't just affect the body; it also takes its toll on the eyes. Let’s look at what happens in low temperatures and how to protect your eyes during the cold season.
Table of Contents
- The effects of cold on the eyes
- Common symptoms
- How to protect your eyes
- When to consult an ophthalmologist
- Frequently asked questions
The effects of cold on the eyes
1. Dry eyes
Wind, cold air, and indoor heating reduce humidity and cause the tear film—the layer protecting the surface of the eye—to evaporate more quickly. The result is typical winter dry eye.
2. Sensitivity to light and glare
An eye dried out by cold wind and heating systems also becomes more sensitive to light. Furthermore, in winter, the sun is low and snow reflects a large part of light and UV rays; the glare can be very intense and make vision tiring, especially in the mountains.
3. Tearing
It may seem strange, but cold and wind often stimulate excessive tearing: it is a defense reaction of an eye that feels irritated.
Common symptoms
- Burning
- Sensation of a foreign body or sand in the eyes
- Blurred vision for a few moments
- Redness
- Itching
- Watery eyes
- Discomfort in light (photophobia)
How to protect your eyes from the cold
1. Suitable eyewear
- Sunglasses with UV protection, even on cold days
- Wraparound models to shield against the wind
- Polarized lenses to reduce reflections on snow; in the mountains and when skiing, use specific goggles or glasses
2. Hydration
- Drink enough throughout the day
- Use artificial tears when your eyes feel dry
- Do not stand too close to heaters, radiators, and hot air vents
3. Good habits
- Use a humidifier at home or in the office
- Take breaks from screens and remember to blink
- Shield your eyes from the wind with a hat or visor
Do you wear contact lenses? Also read our tips for the snow with contact lenses.
When to consult an ophthalmologist
- Eye pain that does not go away
- Blurred vision that does not improve by blinking
- Intense redness lasting more than 24 hours
- Severe light sensitivity
- Very intense dryness that does not improve
If your vision drops suddenly, contact an ophthalmologist or go to the emergency room immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Can the cold cause permanent damage to the eyes?
Usually, the cold causes temporary discomforts like dryness and tearing. However, be careful with UV rays reflected by snow: without protection, they can cause a very painful inflammation of the cornea (known as "snow blindness"), which requires medical attention.
How long can I stay in the cold?
There is no specific limit, but avoid exposing your eyes to wind and sub-zero temperatures for long periods without protection.
Do prescription glasses protect against the cold?
They act as a small barrier against the wind, but for skiing, mountains, or intense cold, wraparound glasses or goggles—even with your prescription—are better.
Dry eye products
At Ottica Paoletti in Pieve di Soligo, you will find eye drops and artificial tears for dry eyes related to cold and heating. If you don't know which one to choose, ask us for advice.