December.
For the Type-A Go-Getter, this month represents the fulfillment of eleven months of prepping and planning; the finish line for focused and frugal gift-hunting.
On the other end of the spectrum is the Procrastinator, for whom this month represents the very kickoff of frenzied Christmas preparation. Or perhaps, just those who take pleasure in partaking in the long lines and last minute scanning of shelves.
But for both the planner, with stockpiled goods carefully stored in the closet, and the “putter-offer”, who has yet to check the deals, there are a few winter items that are probably missing from your list… Here are a few important items that your eyes would benefit from, this season:
- Artificial Tears
Blustery drafts and plunging temperatures often cause eye dryness in the winter months. Seasonal dryness can also be worsened by blasting indoor heating and sitting around the smoky campfire. Artificial tears are an inexpensive, easy fix to this annoying, and potentially painful, condition.
Check in with your local optometrist to find a brand that will ease your symptoms without causing irritation. If the drops are not easing your discomfort, they can walk you through additional treatment options.
- Humidifier
Another helpful tool in eliminating those burning, dry eyes, this season, is to buy a humidifier for your home. Adding humidity to the air will keep your eyes more comfortable, by countering the tear-drying winter air.
- UV sunglasses
Gloves. Check. Hat. Check. Long johns. Check. Sunglasses?…
Though typically not associated with your cold-weather clothing checklist, sunglasses are just as important as your mittens! The sun may be covered, at times, by overcast skies, but UV-Rays are still dangerous and damaging. In fact, your exposure to them is increased in reflective conditions, such as snow and ice.
To greatly reduce your risk of macular degeneration and cataracts, find shades labeled with “100% UV” protection. If you’re planning on participating in winter sports, such as skiing or snowboarding, your optician can direct you to the wide selection of sunglasses catered to active lifestyles.
- Eye Wellness Exam
While this may not be the type of item you can wrap up and set under the tree, it is an important item to add to your calendar. For those with Health Savings Accounts, this is the last chance to be reimbursed for a vision exam before your benefits expire!
- Stop World Blindness
This may not benefit your eyes, but if you’re looking for a worthy charity to donate to, this holiday, consider the noble and highly successful work of the Himalayan Cataract Project (HCP). This revolutionary organization delivers high-quality cataract surgery to remote and impoverished regions, restoring vision and changing lives. To give to this cause, visit to donate.cureblindness.org.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
central point eyecare 