Autumn in New York is beautiful—cooler air, changing leaves, and cozy evenings. But for many, the shift in weather also means dry, irritated eyes. If your eyes are itchy and gritty as the air gets cooler and the heat kicks on indoors, you may be suffering from seasonal dry eye.
Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam on the Upper West Side can help uncover the reason for your discomfort and determine the best dry eye treatment. In this blog, we’ll share why fall dryness happens and what you can do to keep your eyes feeling comfortable.
Why fall makes eyes feel dry
The seasonal changes in the city can have a big effect on your eyes. Common causes of seasonal dry eyes include:
- Cooler air: Lower humidity outside makes tears evaporate more quickly.
- Indoor heating: Radiators and heaters reduce indoor moisture, leaving eyes feeling scratchy.
- More screen time: Shorter days and cooler weather often mean more time indoors on devices, which can lead to dryness and eye strain.
Can seasonal allergies cause dry eyes?
Absolutely. While most people associate allergies with watery eyes, they can also cause dryness and irritation. Allergens trigger inflammation, which disrupts the tear film that keeps your eyes moist. If you wear contact lenses, you may feel these symptoms more strongly since allergens can stick to your lenses.
During a contact lens exam, our experienced eye doctors can check whether daily contact lenses or scleral lenses could improve your comfort during allergy season.
How to relieve seasonal dry eyes
You don’t have to put up with irritated eyes this fall. Some lifestyle adjustments can help:
- Use a humidifier: Add moisture back into the air indoors.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water supports tear production.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Take a 20-second break from screens every 20 minutes and focus on something 20 feet away.
- Update your eyewear: Well-fitted eyeglasses can help block the wind, and the right contact lenses can prevent or reduce dry eye symptoms.
- Try artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops can provide quick relief for mild dryness.
Professional care for lasting comfort
If dryness lingers despite these adjustments, it may be time to get your eyes checked. During a comprehensive eye exam, our friendly, knowledgeable eye doctors can look for underlying causes and recommend treatments tailored to your needs. Options may include specialty contact lenses designed for dry eyes or other solutions that bring long-term comfort.
Keep your eyes comfortable this fall
Fall should be about enjoying the season, not dealing with dry, irritated eyes. With the right daily habits and professional care, you can keep your eyes feeling comfortable and your vision clear. Call our office today or book an appointment online and give your eyes the care they deserve this season.