Spotlight on Eye Health and The Holidays

Your holiday to-do list may include shopping, gift wrapping, and preparing for holiday parties. Maintaining healthy eyes may not be on your radar, but you shouldn't take a holiday break from safeguarding your vision.

Unfortunately, changes in diet, exercise, and sleep may all occur during the holiday season and have an adverse effect on your eyes. Additionally, travel during the holidays may impact your eyes.
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Keeping a few things in mind may help you maintain healthy eyes throughout the holiday season and all year long.

The blog provides information on how the holidays may impact your eyes and tips to maintain your eye health through the busy holiday season.
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Be aware of holiday risks 

The holidays may bring family get-togethers and nice memories, but this time of year may also have some possible negative consequences, such as: 

Overindulgence: Holiday parties may include foods high in sugar and fat, which may lead to weight gain. Although an occasional holiday treat is probably not going to harm you, regular overindulgence can increase your risk of diabetes. Diabetes is closely associated with serious eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy.

Increased stress: The holidays may also bring increased stress. Holiday stress may be caused by financial concerns, anticipating family conflicts, and missing loved ones. We know stress may have an adverse effect on health, but did you know stress may also affect the eyes?

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, stress may cause a temporary increase in ocular pressure. Over time, increased eye pressure may lead to glaucoma.

Winter weather: The weather is often cooler during the holiday season, which may increase your risk of certain conditions, such as dry eyes. 
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Holiday eye health precautions 

Taking certain precautions during the holiday season may help protect your vision and eyes. Consider the following tips: 

• View Christmas lights from a distance. Prolonged exposure to Christmas lights may lead to eye strain. You can still enjoy the festive displays by keeping a little distance between you and the lights, so you're not overwhelmed by the brightness.
• Watch for branches and pine needles that stick out as you decorate your Christmas tree. Also, be aware of pointy ornaments that can poke you in the eye.
• Ensure toys are age-appropriate and avoid those that may cause eye injury, such as toys that shoot projectiles. Always consider the maturity of your child when buying a toy.
• Find healthy ways to de-stress, such as going for a walk, watching a funny movie, or doing deep breathing exercises.
• Make sleep a priority. Lack of sleep can increase feelings of stress. It may also have an adverse effect on your eyes, increasing the risk of eye strain. Although it's a busy time of year, try to get seven or eight hours of sleep each night. 
• Keep moving. Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce tension. 

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Travel eye health tips 

If  you are doing some traveling during the holiday season, there are a few things to keep in mind to maintain healthy eyes, such as: 

• Pack any prescription eye drops in your carry-on, so they are always with you.
• Bring an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses.
• Stay well hydrated to help with adequate tear production.
• Use artificial tears if you develop dry eye from air travel. 

 
We hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday season! 

If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.