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Do You See What I See?

Your eyes are at greater risk of suffering damage either temporarily or permanently due to UV rays during the winter. This is because UV rays are not only emitted by the sun, but also reflected by the earth surface. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has suggested a few eye care tips to keep your eyes safe in the winter.

• During winters the use of indoor heaters tend to dry the air's moisture which can cause irritation and dryness in your eyes. It is advised to use a humidifier in your house during winters. This would be helpful in tolerating the forced air heating and keeping your dry eyes moist.
• Use sunglasses which are capable of blocking 99-100% of UV rays, particularly when the land is snow covered. Remember that sunlight reflected by the snow can lead to sunburned eyes. Overexposed eyes to sun's UV rays during winters can lead to temporary damage like photokeratitis. So it is advisable for you to use high quality of UV-blocking sunglasses.
• If you are a contact lenses wearer then it is advisable for you to use artificial tears often and limit your outdoor exposures. If you wear soft contact lenses then limit your alcohol intake. Remember that soft lenses require a lot of moisture and if they dry they can stick and change the shape of your eyes.
• This advice is especially for snow lovers as they spend extensive time in snow. They are at a higher risk to develop temporary eye problems hence they should use a pair of properly fitted ski goggles with polycarbonate lenses.
• To protect the tear film from evaporation it is advised to wear a hooded jacket and a brimmed hat as they will prevent your eyes from cold wind.
• Apply a good quality eye cream around the eyes as it will be helpful in protecting the delicate eye area from the harsh winter.

And remember, Christian Brothers Employee Benefit Services has joined with the Vision Service Plan, better known as VSP, to bring you a discount eyecare program. VSP is a popular national vision provider that allows eligible members to receive discounts when visiting a VSP network doctor. VSP will be provided for all Trust participants who are enrolled for medical coverage.*

VSP network doctors are easily accessible and are conveniently located near your home, work, and shopping centers. At every VSP network location, you will receive exceptional care as well as a wide selection of frames and contacts to choose.

Routine eye exams can help you see better, as well as detect a number of serious health conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes, cancer, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. For kids, routine eye exams can detect problems that can impact learning and development.

Whether you need to schedule evening appointments, need doctors who focus on sports eyewear, or someone you can trust that is familiar with working with children, VSP network doctors know what is important to you and your family.

With VSP, there are no ID cards, no claim forms, and you can get your eye exam, glasses and contacts all at one convenient location. Visit the VSP website or call 1-800-877-7195 to find a VSP network provider’s office near you.