EYES on January EYES

We’re back.  To what we laughingly refer to as ‘normal’.  Opening hours are as they were last year, we’ve got our new 2024 diary and have eye examination appointments available (call us on 01727 838003 or pop in).

We’ve found over the years, that the Christmas/New Year period is when many people really notice their eyesight has changed.  Whether it’s trying to read those miniscule instructions, watch more television or you’ve been driving more than normal, those prescription changes (or the fact that you just can’t see properly) can really become apparent.

This is also the time that people try and put off coming in to see us because the last thing they need in a grey January is being told their eyesight isn’t what it was!  You know what we’re going to say to that!

In reality though, people can struggle more with their sight during the winter months and there are a number of reasons why:

• It’s dark for more of the day.  The low light makes it harder for our eyes to do what they need to do – so you’re more likely to get tired eyes.  Driving in the dark is also harder work on eyes – especially when the weather is bad so it’s not surprising we can find our eyes are fatigued at the end of the day.
• Cold weather.  Not that we’ve had much of it so far but being out in the cold and the wind can make your eyes dry out faster.  It can also cause the over production of tears that then make your vision blurry.  Dry eyes can become itchy and uncomfortable so if you’re a contact lens wearer, it might be better to wear your glasses for a bit more protection.
• Central heating can also dry your eyes out and if your house is a bit damp, that can cause mould spores that can irritate your eyes as well.  A dehumidifier can help you find a balance here but essentially, winter is hard on the eyes!

On those days where the sun does come out, remember to wear your sunglasses too – the rays of light are lower in the sky so you can be dazzled more easily when driving and the sun’s light is just as damaging to your eyes in the winter as the summer.

If you’re off skiing in the next few months and want your prescription put into goggles, just pop in and we can arrange this.  Just give us a little bit more notice than usual so we can get it all made up. 

So, if you’ve found yourself struggling to see as clearly as you were, come in and see us.  We’ll be happy to advise on whether it’s a prescription issue or whether something you can do at home will help you through the winter until things brighten up a bit.