As the crisp autumn air sets in, many people notice their eyes feeling dry, itchy, or irritated. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Fall is one of the most common seasons for dry eye flare-ups, thanks to cooler temperatures, indoor heating, and seasonal allergies that leave eyes feeling parched and uncomfortable.
At Advanced Eyecare Associates, we understand how frustrating seasonal dryness can be. Whether you spend your days in an office, outdoors, or wearing contact lenses, finding relief starts with understanding what’s behind the irritation—and how to fix it.
Why Fall Makes Dry Eyes Worse
When fall arrives, humidity levels drop and indoor heating becomes a necessity. This combination pulls moisture from the air and, in turn, from your eyes. Add longer hours staring at digital screens and exposure to autumn allergens like ragweed or dust, and your tear film can struggle to keep up.
Dry eyes aren’t just uncomfortable—they can lead to redness, blurry vision, or even light sensitivity when left untreated. The good news? A few small changes can make a big difference in keeping your eyes comfortable this season.
5 Simple Tips for Fall Dry Eye Relief
1. Stay Hydrated Even mild dehydration can impact your tear quality. Aim to drink water throughout the day, especially if you consume caffeine or spend time in heated environments. Hydration supports tear production and helps your eyes maintain a healthy moisture balance.
2. Use a Humidifier Indoor heating systems are notorious for drying out the air. Running a humidifier restores moisture and prevents your tears from evaporating too quickly. Keep one in your bedroom or workspace for consistent relief.
3. Blink More During Screen Time When we focus on computers, tablets, or phones, we blink less—sometimes 50% less than normal. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It’s a simple way to reset your blinking pattern and reduce eye strain.
4. Choose Eye-Friendly Makeup and Skincare Heavy oils and waterproof products can block the tiny glands along your eyelids that keep your eyes lubricated. Opt for hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested formulas and remember to remove makeup thoroughly each night.
5. Visit Advanced Eyecare Associates for Professional Dry Eye Treatment If your symptoms persist, it may be time to see an optometrist. Persistent dryness can signal chronic dry eye—a condition that requires professional care. At Advanced Eyecare Associates, our doctors use advanced diagnostic tools and tailored treatments, including options like LipiFlow therapy, to target the root cause and provide lasting relief.
When to See an Optometrist
You don’t have to wait until discomfort becomes unbearable. If you’re experiencing burning, stinging, redness, or watery eyes that don’t improve with over-the-counter drops, it’s best to schedule an evaluation. Chronic dry eye often involves issues with your tear glands or inflammation along the eyelids, both of which can be effectively managed with personalized care.
Our team takes a thorough approach to diagnosis—evaluating your lifestyle, medications, and tear film quality—to find the most effective treatment plan for you.
Local Eye Care You Can Count On
Fall is meant for enjoying cozy evenings, not battling irritated eyes. If dry eyes are bothering you this season, let Advanced Eyecare Associates help you find relief. Our team proudly serves patients in Moses Lake and the surrounding areas, offering comprehensive dry eye evaluations and advanced therapies designed to restore comfort and clarity.
Schedule your dry eye appointment today at Advanced Eyecare Associates—and see why so many patients trust our team for long-term vision care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can fall allergies make my eyes feel dry?
- Yes. Allergens like ragweed, dust, and mold can irritate the eye’s surface and worsen dryness by triggering inflammation or excessive tearing.
Q: Are contact lens wearers more prone to dry eye in fall?
- Absolutely. Cooler, drier air can cause lenses to dehydrate faster. Try using rewetting drops or switching to daily disposables if your lenses feel uncomfortable.
Q: Do over-the-counter drops work for everyone?
- Artificial tears can provide short-term comfort, but if you’re using them more than four times a day without relief, a professional evaluation is recommended.
Please note: Our office is Closed for lunch Tuesday through Thursday from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.