The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time when our eyes are exposed to potential hazards. From holiday decorations to certain festive foods, there are many ways that our eyes can be at risk during this time of year.

Here are 10 tips for keeping your eyes safe and healthy during the holidays.

Tip 1: Protect your eyes from harsh winter weather

During the winter months, our eyes can be exposed to cold, dry air that can cause discomfort and irritation. Wearing sunglasses or goggles can help protect your eyes from the elements and keep them moist.

Make sure to choose glasses with 100% UV protection, even on cloudy days, to avoid further damage from the sun’s rays.

Tip 2: Be careful with holiday decorations

Holiday decorations can bring warmth and cheer to your home, but certain ones can also pose a risk to your eyes. Be careful with sharp objects like ornaments and put them out of reach of children to avoid eye injuries.

If you’re using a ladder to reach high places, make sure it’s stable and that you have someone to hold it steady.

Tip 3: Use proper eye protection when participating in winter sports

If you plan on participating in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, make sure to wear the appropriate gear to protect your eyes.

Goggles or sunglasses with polarized lenses can help reduce glare and prevent serious eye injuries like corneal lacerations.

Tip 4: Take frequent breaks when staring at screens

During the holidays, you might find yourself spending more time on computers or other digital devices. Be sure to take frequent breaks and look away from the screen to reduce eye strain and dryness.

Tip 5: Avoid rubbing your eyes

It’s easy to get tired or irritated eyes during the holiday season, but rubbing your eyes can actually make the situation worse. Rubbing the eyes can cause redness, swelling, and even break blood vessels, leading to further problems.

If you’re experiencing eye discomfort, try using a warm compress or eye drops instead.

Tip 6: Be careful with festive foods

The holidays are a time for indulging in delicious treats, but certain foods can be harmful to your eyes. Be cautious of foods that are high in salt, as they can lead to dehydration and dry eyes.

Foods high in vitamin A, such as carrots and leafy greens, can help promote healthy eyesight.

Tip 7: Clean your contact lenses properly

If you wear contact lenses, it’s important to clean them properly to avoid infections and other eye problems. Make sure to follow the instructions given by your optometrist or eye doctor and use a proper cleaning solution.

Also, do not sleep in your contact lenses, as it can lead to serious eye infections.

Tip 8: Keep your hands clean

During the holiday season, we’re frequently exchanging handshakes and hugs with family and friends.

Make sure to wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading germs, as some infections like pink eye can be easily transferred through contact with your hands.

Tip 9: Get an eye exam before the holidays

If you haven’t had an eye exam recently, consider scheduling one before the holidays. This can help ensure that your eyes are in good health and that any changes in your vision have been addressed before the busyness of the holidays sets in.

Tip 10: Take care of your overall health

Your overall health can have a significant impact on the health of your eyes. Be sure to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep to promote optimal ocular health.

Additionally, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, both of which can cause serious eye health issues.