As we move through the seasons, many people experience changes in their environment that can have a big impact on their eyes. For those suffering from dry eyes, these shifts can be especially challenging. Whether it's the biting cold of winter, the heat of summer, or the pollen-filled air of spring, weather changes and seasonal allergies can cause dry eye symptoms to worsen. But understanding how these factors affect your eyes—and what you can do to minimize their impact—can make a significant difference in your comfort.
How Fall and Winter Weather Affects Dry Eye
Weather conditions can affect the delicate balance of moisture and lubrication in the eyes. Here are a few ways the seasons may trigger or exacerbate dry eye symptoms:
Fall: Transitioning Air
During fall, the cooler, breezy weather can lead to an increase in wind exposure, further drying out the eyes. The onset of cooler weather can also mean switching on the heating, which can lead to the same dry indoor air conditions as in winter.
Winter: Dry Air and Indoor Heating
In colder months, the air tends to be much drier, especially in areas where heating systems are in use. Central heating and fireplaces can dry out the air indoors, reducing the humidity and causing moisture to evaporate more quickly from the eyes. The result? Redness, irritation, and a gritty sensation that many dry eye sufferers know all too well.
Tips to Prevent Dry Eye Flare-Ups During Seasonal Changes
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the impact of weather changes and seasonal allergies on your dry eye symptoms. Here’s what you can do:
1. Use a Humidifier Indoors
Whether you’re combating the dry heat of winter or air-conditioned environments in the summer, using a humidifier can help restore moisture in the air, reducing the evaporation of tears from the eyes.
2. Moisture Chamber glasses
On dry, windy or high-pollen days, moisture chamber glasses can create a higher humidity environment for your eyes and decrease exposure to irritants and allergens. Ziena and 7eye make moisture chamber glasses that are both attractive and functional, making them an excellent option. Buying a cheap pair of onion goggles from amazon is a great way to try them out before investing in more pricey options. They are particularly helpful for long hours at the computer.
3. Lubricate your eyes more frequently
Artificial tears can help keep your eyes moisturized and prevent dryness, especially in environments with dry air or allergens. Preservative free artificial tears are one option, but there are many options to help keep the surface of your eye well lubricated including miebo (which helps keeps tears from evaporating), tyrvaya (a nasal spray that increases tear production) and punctal occlusion (which helps keep your tears on the surface of your eye for longer).
Common Myths about Treating dry eye:
1. Myth: Blue Blocking Glasses improve dry eye.
Fact: While blue blocking glasses have been shown to help with sleep and circadian rhythm they are not a treatment for dry eye. This is a marketing gimmick with no science behind it.
2. Myth: Drinking more water will cure dry eye.
Fact: Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, but drinking more water alone is usually not enough to cure dry eye. While dehydration can contribute to dryness, dry eye is often more complex, involving issues with tear production, tear film stability, or inflammation. Proper treatment often requires specialized eye drops, warm compresses, prescription therapies, and in-office treatments.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your dry eye symptoms persist despite taking preventive measures, it may be time to consult your eye care professional. In some cases, more advanced treatments—such as prescription medications, in-office procedures, or specialized eye drops—may be necessary to manage your condition effectively.
As an ophthalmologist specializing in dry eye, I can help tailor a treatment plan that works for you, especially if seasonal changes are making your symptoms harder to manage. Remember, managing dry eye is about understanding the triggers, making the right lifestyle adjustments, and seeking care when needed.
Ready To Learn More?
If you are one of the many Colorado residents who suffer from dry eye, experience the comfort and clarity you can achieve with expert care. You can schedule your first appointment online, or contact us with any questions using our online form. Need more ways to get in touch? Simply call 303-863-1231.
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