Crisp mornings, colorful leaves, and pumpkin spice everything—fall is a favorite season for many. But with cooler weather and lower humidity often comes an unwelcome change: dry, irritated eyes. Whether you’re spending time outdoors enjoying the season or indoors with the heat running, fall can cause itchy, dry, and irritated eyes.
Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam in Naperville or Plainfield is one of the best ways to understand what’s causing your symptoms and find effective dry eye treatment. In this blog, we’ll share why eyes can get drier in the fall and how to find relief.
Why fall makes eyes feel dry
Seasonal changes affect your eyes more than you might think. Here are a few common reasons dryness increases in autumn:
- Cooler air: Outdoor air holds less moisture, leading to quicker tear evaporation.
- Indoor heating: Furnaces and space heaters reduce indoor humidity, leading to irritated, scratchy eyes.
- More screen time: Shorter days and cooler weather can mean more time indoors on devices, contributing to digital eye strain and dryness.
Can seasonal allergies cause dry eyes?
Yes, seasonal allergies are a leading cause of dry eyes. Ragweed, mold, and other fall allergens can trigger itchy, watery, or red eyes.
Even though allergies are known for making eyes water, they can just as easily create dryness and irritation. That’s because allergens cause inflammation, which disrupts the tear film and prevents your eyes from staying properly lubricated.
If you wear contact lenses, allergies may make symptoms even more noticeable since allergens can stick to the lens surface. During a contact lens exam, our experienced eye doctor can recommend switching to daily disposable contact lenses or specialty options to improve your comfort.
How to relieve seasonal dry eyes
There are plenty of small changes that can help you feel better this fall:
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture back into the air helps prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day supports healthy tear production.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to rest your eyes.
- Choose the right eyewear: Well-fitted eyeglasses and sunglasses can help block the wind outdoors. Additionally, updating your contact lenses ensures your lenses aren’t making dryness worse.
- Use artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating drops can provide quick relief.
Professional treatments for lasting comfort
Sometimes over-the-counter eye drops and home remedies aren’t enough, especially if dry eye becomes a chronic issue. During a comprehensive eye exam, we can check for underlying causes of dryness and recommend tailored solutions, including supplements or prescription eye drops.
Keep your eyes comfortable this season
Fall should be about enjoying the crisp air and colorful leaves, not dealing with dry, uncomfortable eyes. With the right habits and guidance from our experts, you can keep your vision clear and comfortable all season long. Call Naperville Vision Care or Plainfield Vision Care today to schedule an appointment and give your eyes the care they deserve.