As winter approaches here in Minnesota, Rivertown Eye Care is here to help you protect your eyes against the cold temperatures, snowfall, and winds that it brings along with it. Eye care is self-care, and it’s as equally important to take care of as is your immune system, your skin, and your personal health and wellbeing. For fifty years, Rivertown Eye Care has been providing excellent, quality eye care and service for our friends and neighbors in Hastings–we're here to make sure your eyes stay in tip-top health, all winter long!
Seasonal Changes & Minnesota’s Winter Temperatures: Protect Your Vision from Dry Eyes and UV Rays
In Minnesota, winter temperatures average between 10°F and 25°F, with the northern regions often dipping below zero. This cold, combined with strong winds and snowfall, creates conditions that can be particularly harsh on the eyes. Snowy landscapes reflect bright sunlight, intensifying glare, while dry, heated indoor air can lead to uncomfortable eye dryness. Winter conditions directly affect your eye health, but there are many things you can do to protect your vision from dry eyes and UV rays.
Protect Your Eyes in Winter: Eye Health Challenges in Minnesota
The winter season brings a unique set of eye health challenges, such as:
UV Rays & Glare from Bright Snow
Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, which can cause a painful condition known as “snow blindness,” a form of photokeratitis. This intense reflection can lead to eye strain, headaches, and temporary vision impairment.
Dry Eyes from Cold Temperatures & Indoor Heat
Cold outdoor air and heated indoor environments create low humidity levels, which can cause or worsen dry eye symptoms. This dryness can lead to itchy, red eyes and a general feeling of discomfort.
Wind Exposure
Strong winds can irritate the eyes and increase tear evaporation, leaving eyes feeling dry and uncomfortable. For contact lens wearers, winter winds may also lead to more irritation, so eye protection is crucial.
How to prevent dry eyes in winter months
Protecting your eyes during the winter is essential for maintaining comfort and preventing seasonal damage. Here are some key practices to keep your eyes in top shape:
Wear UV-Protective Sunglasses
UV protection isn’t just for summer! Wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection on snowy days can shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of snow glare. At Rivertown Eye Care, we offer a variety of protective and stylish eyewear options perfect for every winter adventure.
Use a Humidifier at Home
A humidifier can help counteract the drying effects of indoor heat, adding moisture back into the air. This can relieve dry eyes and make your home environment more comfortable.
Keep Eyes Moisturized with Eye Drops
Using lubricating eye drops can help reduce winter dryness and soothe irritation. At REC, we carry high-quality eye drops to help you find relief from dryness during colder months. We also provide LipiFlow treatment to treat the cause of dry eyes, not just the symptoms.
Eat an Eye-Healthy Diet
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon and walnuts), as well as vitamins A, C, and E (found in leafy greens and citrus fruits), can help protect your eye health. A balanced diet supports tear production, retinal health, and overall eye function.
Wear Wraparound Sunglasses or Goggles
For particularly windy days or outdoor winter sports, wraparound sunglasses or goggles provide added protection from wind and UV rays, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation. Rivertown Eye Care can help you select the best glasses and sunglasses for your winter needs.
Rivertown Eye Care: Your Source for Winter Eye Health and Style
At Rivertown Eye Care, we’re here to support your personal winter eye care needs, for all of our client’s unique needs. Whether you’re looking for UV-protective sunglasses, eye drops to combat dryness, supplements to keep your eyes in top shape, we have you covered. With a wide range of protective and stylish eyewear, as well as expert advice on preventative eye care, we have Hastings’ (and our surrounding areas) eye health covered this winter season!
The First Step Toward Winter Eye Health - Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Today
As we welcome the winter months and holiday season, Rivertown Eye Care wishes everyone a safe, healthy, and joyful season. Click the button below to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and keep your eyes winter-ready with the help of our dedicated team!
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