How To Avoid Dry Eyes In Autumn

Ways To Prevent Dry Eyes In Fall

Avoid Allergens
While some people’s allergies flare up in the spring, other people get fall allergies (and some people get both). Just because the pollen count is lower in the fall doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of allergens in the air. Doing activities that stir up allergens such as dust and ragweed can trigger allergic reactions, including dry, itchy, and watery eyes. To avoid allergy-induced dry eye, don’t do activities such as raking leaves or other yard work.

Keep It Humid
As the air cools down, it loses its humidity. While winter tends to have the driest air, fall isn’t far behind. Your dry eyes may get worse when the air loses its summer humidity in the fall. To help avoid this, get a humidifier for your home. This will help to keep moisture in the air so that your eyes won’t feel as dry.

Don’t Turn Up The Heat
Even though you probably want to turn up the heating or sit by the fire on a cold fall day, this will further aggravate autumn dry eyes. Both heat and moving air cause tear evaporation and make dry eye symptoms worse. Instead, snuggle up under some blankets and throw on a nice fall scarf.

Use Artificial Tears
When you have dry eyes, you can get adequate lubrication through external sources. Eye drops such as artificial tears and other eye care products designed to help reduce dry eye symptoms are a good way to help your eyes feel more comfortable. These products are beneficial for occasional use for dry eye relief, but you typically don’t want to use eye drops or artificial tears more than 4 times a day unless otherwise specified by your optometrist. These products are ideal for people with mild to moderate dry eyes, but anyone with severe dry eyes or dry eye syndrome (DES) may need prescription eye drops.

Visit The Optometrist
If your eyes are feeling dry or irritated, it is always a good idea to visit your optometrist. An optometrist will be able to determine the underlying cause of your dry eyes and they can offer solutions including prescription eye drops, lifestyle changes, allergy medication recommendations, and more. If your dry eyes are severe, your optometrist may recommend other forms of dry eye treatment.
 

Get Dry Eye Relief From Market Mall Optometry

Whether your dry eyes are year-round or seasonal, Market Mall Optometry can help reduce your dry eye symptoms. During an eye exam, a Calgary optometrist will determine the cause of your dry eyes and will create a symptom relief plan based on this. For comprehensive and personalized dry eye care, visit the dry eye clinic at Market Mall Optometry in NW Calgary or schedule an eye exam with one of our Calgary optometrists. You can contact Market Mall Optometry at 1-403-286-4884 or fill out the online contact form to set up an eye exam so you can start living, and seeing, comfortably.
 

FAQ

Q: How do I know if I have dry eyes or not?
A: Common symptoms of dry eyes include:

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes.
• Stringy mucus in or around your eyes.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Eye redness.
• A sensation of having something in your eyes.
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses.

Visit your optometrist if you experience any of the symptoms listed above so you can begin treatment to restore your vision and help you see comfortably once again.

Q: What are other allergens that might cause dry eye symptoms?
A: Aside from pollen, dry eye-inducing allergens may include but are not limited to:

• Pet dander
• Perfume
• Mold
• Dust
• Cigarette smoke
• Diesel exhaust fumes
• Ragweed

Q: When should I see a doctor about my dry eyes?
A: While you may be able to manage your symptoms with over-the-counter treatments, it is always smart to get a professional opinion on how to treat your case and gain a better understanding of the condition.