Why Symptoms Flare and How to Find Relief!
Autumn is a beautiful season in Canada, with crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy sweater weather. But for many Canadians, it also marks the start of a frustrating struggle: dry eye in autumn. If you notice burning, itching, redness, or excessive tearing as the weather cools, you’re not alone. Understanding why autumn brings these issues and how to manage them can make all the difference for your eye comfort and health.
Weather Changes That Trigger Dry Eye
One of the biggest culprits behind autumn dry eye is the changing weather. As humidity drops and the air becomes drier, our eyes lose moisture more quickly. The combination of cool outdoor air and warm indoor spaces creates a significant shift in temperature and humidity, which can exacerbate tear evaporation. Windy days common in the fall further increase the risk, as moving air strips the eyes of moisture faster than calm conditions.
Additionally, shorter days mean more time spent under artificial lighting, which can contribute to eye strain and dryness. All of these environmental factors can turn previously minor irritation into a noticeable problem.
The Heating Season Begins
Autumn also signals the start of the heating season, which can worsen dry eye symptoms. Forced-air heating and other heating systems reduce indoor humidity, leaving eyes feeling dry and irritated. Many Canadians notice that symptoms become particularly noticeable once furnaces and heaters are switched on. Even homes that feel comfortable can have indoor air that is harshly drying to the delicate tissues of the eyes.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle changes during autumn can also contribute to dry eye flare-ups. As daylight hours decrease, we naturally spend more time indoors, often in front of screens for work, school, or entertainment. Extended screen time reduces blink rate, which can cause the eyes to dry out more quickly.
Autumn also coincides with the return to back-to-school and work routines, which typically increases time spent on computers or devices. Seasonal allergies, such as ragweed or mould spores, may also exacerbate dryness, itching, and irritation. The combination of these factors creates a perfect storm for dry eye symptoms to appear or worsen.
Geographic Considerations
Where you live in Canada can influence how severe autumn dry eye becomes. Residents of the prairie provinces often experience very dry air in the fall, making symptoms more pronounced. Coastal areas may see less dramatic changes, but the increased use of indoor heating can still trigger discomfort. Mountain regions, with crisp, dry air, can also leave eyes feeling parched and irritated.
Managing Autumn Dry Eye
Given these environmental and lifestyle factors, autumn is an excellent time to talk about dry eye awareness and treatments. If you’re starting to notice symptoms such as burning, gritty sensations, or even paradoxical excessive tearing, it may be time to take action.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity and type of dry eye. Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief, while prescription medications or specialized therapies may be necessary for chronic or severe cases. Small lifestyle adjustments—like using a humidifier, taking regular screen breaks, and staying hydrated—can also make a significant difference.
A comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist is the best way to identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Early intervention can prevent discomfort from worsening and protect the long-term health of your eyes.
Conclusion
Autumn may be a season of beauty, but it can also bring challenges for your eyes. Dry air, heating systems, increased screen time, and seasonal allergies all contribute to a spike in dry eye symptoms. Understanding why this happens and taking proactive steps—like scheduling an eye exam, using lubricating drops, and optimizing your indoor environment—can help you enjoy the season comfortably and safely.
If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms this fall, don’t wait for relief to happen on its own. Contact Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. to book a comprehensive eye exam and explore effective treatments tailored to your eyes. Your comfort and vision are worth it!
