Eye injuries caused by cold exposure most often occur in individuals
who try to force their eyes open in high winds, cold weather, or during
activities such as snowmobiling or cross-country skiing.
Eye symptoms from cold temperature exposure include:
- Eye pain.
- Loss of
vision.
- Blurred or decreased vision.
- Double
vision.
- Severe sensitivity to light (photophobia).
In rare cases, the cornea may freeze, which can lead to blurred
vision, sensitivity to light, eyelid spasms (blepharospasm), excessive tearing,
and pain when you try to rewarm the eye.
Snow blindness is not directly caused by cold temperatures but does
occur in snow conditions. Sunlight reflecting off the snow causes irritation of
the eye. Eyelids may become red and swell. The eyes may feel dry and as though
they have sand in them.
Treatment includes rewarming the eye and medication to moisten and
protect the eyes.
