Seasonal Eye Health Tips

Fall is officially here and winter is around the corner. Here are some recommendations and considerations this Fall/Winter and your eye health.

Stay active- it's easy to be indoors more during the colder seasons, but staying active will help reduce screen time- ultimately, reducing digital eye strain. Digital eye strain can lead to dry eye and blurred vision due to reduced blinking. If the option of being active during the fall/winter seasons, make sure to have proper eyewear with corrective coatings and your correct prescription.

Allergies can continue- don't let the sweater weather fool you. Allergies can be year round, ragweed pollen and spores from fallen leaves are a trigger for itchy and watery eyes. If you suffer from allergies, please see your eye health care professional for help.

UV damage does not take a seasonal break, UV protection is important year round!

Many people lessen their sunglass wear during these seasons. Harmful UV rays can be reflected from the snow, causing keratitis and in severe cases snow blindness. Overcast skies and clouds do not block harmful sunlight. Continue to wear UV protection year round. UV rays can increase your risk for macular degeneration, pterygiums, cataracts and skin cancer around the eyelids.

• Sunglasses are not created equal- just because the lenses are dark, does not mean they are providing the correct UV protection. See your eye care professional for recommendations.

As we move into the fall and winter seasons, it's important to not lose focus on your eye health. Stay as active as you can, try to reduce screen time and wear those cool shades. Protect your eyes this season, your eyes will thank you!