Seasonal Dry Eye: Why It Gets Worse in Fall and Winter

As temperatures cool and the seasons shift, many people start to notice their eyes feeling gritty, irritated, or unusually dry. While dry eye can affect people year-round, it often becomes more bothersome during fall and winter. Understanding the cause of seasonal dry eye can help you find relief and protect your vision.

Why Do Dry Eye Symptoms Get Worse in Colder Seasons?

Several environmental and lifestyle changes occur in fall and winter that make dry eye more common:

• Indoor Heating: As temperatures drop, we turn on heaters to stay warm. Unfortunately, heaters reduce indoor humidity, causing tears to evaporate faster and eyes to dry out.

• Harsh Outdoor Weather: Cold winds can irritate the surface of the eye and increase tear evaporation. Even masks and scarves may redirect airflow upward, drying out the eyes.

• Fewer Blinks During Screen Time: Shorter daylight hours mean more time spent indoors on digital devices. Increased screen usage can reduce your blink rate by up to 50%, contributing to dry eye discomfort.

• Seasonal Allergies: Fall brings a spike in allergens like ragweed and mold. Allergies can inflame your eyes and disrupt healthy tear production.

• Dehydration is More Common: Because we feel less thirsty in cooler weather, many people drink less water - leading to dehydration that can affect tear quality and production.

Managing Seasonal Dry Eye at Home

A few small changes can help ease discomfort:

• Use a humidifier to maintain proper moisture indoors

• Take frequent screen breaks using the 20-20-20 rule

• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect against wind

• Stay well hydrated throughout the day

• Use artificial tears for temporary relief

While these tips can help, persistent dry eye should be evaluated by an optometrist to uncover the root cause.

Professional Dry Eye Treatment in Ukiah, CA

Dry eye can stem from issues like meibomian gland dysfunction, inflammation, hormonal changes, and more. That’s why a personalized approach is essential. Park Optometry provides comprehensive dry eye evaluations and customized treatment options designed to restore comfort and protect ocular surface health. With advanced diagnostic tools and specialized care, our eye doctors in Ukiah, CA can help you find lasting relief.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Consultation Today

Dry eye may be more noticeable in fall and winter, but you don’t have to suffer through it. By identifying triggers and seeking proper care, you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision all year long.

If seasonal dry eye is keeping you from enjoying the cooler months, contact Park Optometry for expert dry eye treatment. Visit our office in Ukiah, California, or call (707) 313-8019 to book an appointment today.