Winter Glaucoma & Cataract Tips

As the year winds down, winter brings cold temperatures, dry air, and lower daylight — all of which can affect eye comfort and vision. For patients with glaucoma or cataracts, staying on top of eye health is especially important during the winter months.

How Winter Affects Eye Health

Dry winter air can:

• Increase dryness and irritation
• Make glaucoma eye drops feel less comfortable
• Causes redness or sensitivity
• Temporarily blur vision

Indoor heating, cold wind, and reduced humidity all contribute to how your eyes feel in winter.

Winter Tips for Glaucoma Patients

1. Stay Consistent With Your Medications

Holiday travel and schedule changes can interrupt routines. Set alarms or reminders to keep up with your prescribed glaucoma drops.

2. Protect Your Eyes Outdoors

Cold wind and dry air may worsen irritation or dryness. Protective eyewear and lubricating drops (if recommended by your doctor) can help keep eyes more comfortable.

3. Watch for Sudden Symptoms

Sudden eye pain, halos around lights, severe headache, or blurred vision can be warning signs of acute angle-closure glaucoma, which is an emergency. Seek immediate care if these symptoms occur.

Winter Tips for Cataract Patients

1. Be Careful With Night Driving

Winter glare from snow, wet roads, and headlights may make night driving more difficult for patients with cataracts. If you notice increasing glare, talk with your eye doctor.

2. Keep Your Eye Appointments

Busy holiday schedules make it easy to postpone care, but cataract and glaucoma evaluations are essential to maintain safe vision.

3. Know When Cataract Surgery Is Recommended

Cataract surgery is safe year-round and can significantly improve vision clarity and brightness. If blurred vision is affecting your daily activities, it may be time to discuss surgery.

Start the New Year With Healthy Eyes

An early-winter evaluation can help ensure stable eye pressure, update your treatment plan, and prepare you for a healthy new year.

For appointments or questions, contact Chicago Glaucoma Consultants. Our team is here to support you with expert glaucoma and cataract care year-round.