As the season transitions from summer into the cooler months in Westwood, many people may notice a change in their eyes. Common eye problems around this time of year include dryness, irritation, or discomfort.
With New Jersey’s autumn and winter climate, the combination of cooler temperatures, dry air, and increased allergens creates a perfect storm for those prone to dry eyes.
Fortunately, our dry eye clinic at Valley Eye Associates offers a variety of treatments and tips tailored to provide lasting relief.
Why Does a Change in Season Impact Dry Eyes?
Westwood's seasonal changes bring a variety of environmental factors that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. During the fall and winter, the air becomes colder and drier, significantly decreasing humidity levels outdoors and indoors. This drastic decrease in moisture can lead to the evaporation of the tear film on the surface of your eyes, resulting in dryness and discomfort.
In addition to the dry air, windy conditions and allergens from ragweed pollen and mold spores from fallen leaves impact eye health. These allergens can irritate the eyes, causing redness, itching, and watering.
The combination of cold winds outdoors, heated indoor environments, and allergens exacerbates dry eyes.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms can vary in severity, but common signs include:
- Dryness and irritation: A feeling of discomfort in the eyes, especially after spending time in dry or windy conditions
- Redness: The eyes may become red and inflamed due to insufficient lubrication
- Burning or stinging sensation: A burning or stinging sensation, particularly in the evenings
- Blurred vision: Vision may become blurred, especially after prolonged screen use or reading
- Watery eyes: Dry eyes can lead to excessive tearing as the eyes try to compensate for the dryness
Tips for Managing Dry Eye in Changing Seasons
If you're experiencing dry eye symptoms as the weather changes, here are some top tips to help you manage the condition:
- Clean Heating Vents and Filters Regularly: As temperatures drop in Westwood, heating systems are turned on, circulating warm air throughout your home. Regularly cleaning your heating vents and replacing filters can reduce the number of airborne particles in your home.
- Use a Humidifier to Add Moisture to the Air: Autumns and winters in Westwood are known for their cold, dry air. A humidifier helps maintain a higher humidity, keeping your eyes hydrated and comfortable.
- Wear Wraparound Sunglasses: The cold, brisk winds during the fall and winter can strip moisture from your eyes, making them feel gritty and dry. Wraparound sunglasses protect your eyes from the drying effects of the wind, reducing tear evaporation and shielding your eyes from allergens.
Dry Eye Treatments
- Use an eye heating pad or electric eye compress: The cold, dry air in Westwood, especially during autumn and winter, can reduce the natural oils in your tear film, leading to increased dryness and discomfort. An eye heating pad or electric eye compress can warm your eyelids, promoting the flow of natural oils that protect your eyes from drying out.
- Sleep goggles for dry eyes: Heating systems during winter can dry out the air, leading to dry eyes, especially overnight. Wearing moisture-sealing goggles can prevent your eyes from drying out overnight.
- Apply a dry eyelid gel: Special eyelid gels can provide a protective barrier, reducing irritation from allergens and winds during the colder months.
- Consult about prescription eye drops: Although over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief, our eye doctor can prescribe eye drops if your symptoms persist. These eye drops treat chronic dry eye and can offer longer-lasting results.
- Consider the best contacts for dry eyes: If you wear contacts and deal with dry eyes, switching to lenses designed specifically for dry eyes can make a difference in comfort.
- Explore OptiLight treatment: This advanced therapy is available at our dry eye clinic and offers long-term relief by targeting the root causes of dry eye syndrome. It’s especially effective for those who have tried other treatments without success.
Find Local Expertise for Dry Eye Relief
If you're dealing with the unwanted symptoms of dry eyes in Westwood, our team is here to help. Request a consultation with Valley Eye Associates to explore your options for managing and treating dry eye.