EN 
PT With the arrival of autumn and winter, the days become shorter and natural light begins to dwindle. Temperatures drop, we spend more time indoors and, inevitably, we increase our exposure to artificial light and digital screens.
They may seem like trivial changes, these changes in brightness can significantly affect your vision and eye comfort.
In this article we explain how light influences visual health and here are some simple tips to protect your eyes this season.
1. less natural light, more visual effort
During autumn and winter, there is a marked reduction in natural sunlight. As a result, the pupils dilate to capture more light, which requires greater strain on the eye muscles. This constant adaptation can cause visual fatigue, headaches and blurred vision, especially in people who already have refractive errors (such as myopia, astigmatism or hyperopia).
What's more, the contrast between indoors and outdoors makes the slower visual adaptation. When moving from a well-lit space to a darker one (or vice versa), it is normal to feel some temporary visual discomfort.
2. The impact of artificial light and screens
In the cold months, the time spent at home or at work tends to increase, as does the use of televisions, computers and smartphones.
These devices emit blue light, which can contribute to digital eyestrain, dry eyes and even sleep disturbances, as it interferes with the circadian rhythm.
If you spend several hours a day at the computer, it's essential to take regular breaks (20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 metres away for 20 seconds) and guarantee a balanced lighting in the workspace - neither too intense nor not enough.
3. Dry air and heating: enemies of moisturised eyes
The use of heating and air conditioning, common at this time of year, causes reduction in air humidity.
As a result, the ocular surface tends to dry out, causing sensation of sand in the eyes, itching and blurred vision.
This phenomenon, known as dry eye syndrome, is one of the main winter complaints and can be aggravated in contact lens wearers.
To relieve symptoms, use artificial tears recommended by your optometrist and avoid directing the flow of hot air directly at your face.
Take care of your eyesight - and see better in any season
The good news is that most of these discomforts can be prevented with simple measures:
- Adjust the brightness of the screens.
- Keep an appropriate distance from the computer.
- Wear glasses with blue light filter if indicated.
- Take frequent visual breaks.
- And above all, have an annual optometry examination to ensure that your eyesight is healthy and well adapted to the demands of the season.
At Centro Óptico Ibérico, we take care of your eyesight in all seasons
With over 30 years' experience, the Centro Óptico Ibérico offers optometry consultations and personalised visual solutions that guarantee comfort and protection, even in the months when there is less light.
We have lenses with blue light filters, photosensitive glasses and specialised advice for every need.
Book your free consultation and enter winter with clearer, healthier and more comfortable vision.
