In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
Perhaps some cyclists have already noticed this in themselves: When it gets cold, your eyes quickly start to squint. "Cold air retains less water than warm air. That's why the eyes dry out particularly quickly in the cool air," says sports ophthalmologist Dr Dieter Schnell. In addition, the body loses water and salts through sweating, which is why the tear fluid in the eye is also reduced.
Cold protection tips: You should pay attention to this
In cold weather, it can quickly Cooling down come. This not only affects the limbs and torso, but the whole body. "Cooling slows down important metabolic processes that provide energy for many visual functions," explains Dr Schnell. This means that the mobility of the eye decreases or is inhibited at low temperatures, which is why visual performance decreases.
Another important factor in protection against the cold is hydration: drinking is not only particularly important on hot days, but also on cold ones! Cold temperatures affect the metabolism of the eyes. It also improves Regular drinking the moisture balance of the eyes. Dr Dieter Schnell recommends isotonic drinks with minerals. His tip is apple spritzer with sodium-rich, non-carbonated mineral water.
Last but not least: Sports glasses. With good sports glasses, the adverse winter effects of dryness and cooling can be minimised. UV protection is also important when choosing glasses in winter: snow and ice reflect the sun's rays, which increases the risk of conjunctivitis or corneal inflammation. For good protection against the cold, glasses should be favoured that reduce the incidence of light from the side and are still well ventilated so that the lenses do not mist up.
Information on the tear film
Why do our eyes water? The tear film protects the eye from foreign bodies. It also supplies the cornea with nutrients, oxygen and moisture. The film consists of three layers: Mucous layer, fatty layer and aqueous layer. The latter makes up the majority of our tear fluid. This is formed in the lacrimal glands and contains nutrients, proteins, enzymes and antibodies to protect the eye from infection.
Lukas Niebuhr
Working student
