As the leaves start to change in Marion, Ohio, you might notice that your eyes feel drier than usual. You’re not imagining it—fall can be tough on our eyes! At Buckeye Optometry, we often hear from patients who struggle with dry, irritated eyes during this time of year. Let’s explore why this happens and what you can do to keep your eyes comfortable.
Why are my eyes drier in the fall?
A few key factors make fall a prime season for dry eyes:
Lower humidity levels
As the weather cools down, the air becomes drier, causing the moisture in our eyes to evaporate more quickly. This can leave your eyes feeling scratchy and uncomfortable.
Indoor heating
Turning up the heat at home might keep you warm, but it can also dry out the air inside. This reduced humidity makes it harder for your eyes to stay moist.
Windy weather
Those crisp, windy fall days can feel refreshing but also dry out your eyes. The wind can strip away the tear film that protects your eyes, leading to dryness.
Seasonal allergies
Fall allergens like ragweed and mold can irritate your eyes, making them watery or dry. Allergy medications can also contribute to dryness, leaving your eyes feeling worse.
Tips to manage seasonal dry eye
If you’re dealing with dry eyes this fall, here are a few tips to help:
- Use a humidifier: Keep a humidifier running at home to add moisture back into the air.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help keep your eyes and the rest of your body hydrated.
- Wear sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the wind when you’re outside by wearing sunglasses or eyeglasses.
- Take screen breaks: Give your eyes a rest from screens and remember to blink more often to keep them moist.
When to visit Buckeye Optometry
If your dry eyes are getting in the way of enjoying the fall season, we offer dry eye treatment in Marion! We can examine your eyes, determine the underlying cause of your symptoms, and suggest the best treatments to keep them comfortable, whether that’s prescription eye drops, ointments, moist heat compresses, daily supplements, or simple changes to your routine.
Don’t let dry eyes ruin your fall fun! Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment and find relief that lasts all season long.