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Dry Eye Worsening in Fall

October 14, 2021

Chronic dry eye results from poor tear quality or too few tears. Left untreated, this condition can lead to eye damage and eye infections. Therefore, you should plan to visit an eye doctor for an evaluation if you experience symptoms of dry eye or need to use eye drops frequently. Symptoms of dry eye tend to occur more frequently as you age, so don’t put off treatment!  

 




Symptoms of Dry Eye

 
  • Irritation.
     

  • Excessive eye rubbing.
     

  • Reddening of the eyes.
     

  • Burning sensation in the eye.
     

  • Excessive blinking.
     

  • Stinging sensation.
     

  • Foreign body sensation.
     

  • Eye-watering.




Seasonal Allergies or Dry Eye?



Some of the symptoms of seasonal allergies are like those of chronic dry eye. If you experience dry or irritated eyes, especially during Fall, you should get an accurate diagnosis from an eye doctor. This will help you receive the appropriate treatment if recommended. 


Seasonal allergies and dry eye have certain symptoms in common. These include grittiness, redness, and dryness. Itching is a common symptom of allergies, while burning is more likely with dry eye. If you have an allergy, the solution could be allergy medication that will not make dry eye worse. 


But you need to know that some over-the-counter medications used to treat allergies can cause dry eyes. Thus, it is better to visit your eye doctor for the appropriate diagnosis and recommendation for medication. 




Seasonal Changes and Dry Eye



Climate and weather can have a huge impact on your eye health. If you suffer from dry eye disease, the changing seasons and weather can cause you to experience a roller coaster of relief and discomfort throughout the year. Seasonal allergens, wind, humidity, and temperatures can all affect dry eyes, causing your symptoms to worsen and improve. 


According to one study, dry eye complaints vary significantly by season. It confirms that the number of complaints rises in the Fall and Spring and falls during the Summer months. Fortunately, you can take certain steps to experience relief during the Fall and Spring seasons. 




Dry Eye During the Fall Season



Some of the factors that can lead to the worsening of chronic dry eye in Fall include drier, colder air and allergens. Hay fever is a term people use to describe some of the common allergens of early Fall. It can trigger various eye symptoms and worsen chronic dry eye. 


Also, certain outdoor activities during the Fall season may worsen your reaction to allergens. Thus, you need to stay indoors when you are experiencing unusually high eye irritation. Some of the activities that can stir up allergens include raking leaves and yard work. If possible, avoid engaging in such activities. 


If you must work outside, wear safety goggles to avoid getting irritants or allergens into your eyes. Leaves harbor mold and ragweed, which can also trigger eye allergies that can worsen chronic dry eye.




Takeaway



You need to understand how seasonal changes can affect your eyes. Take steps to protect them from the weather and add some moisture to your indoor environments. If allergens affect you, avoid contact with them. Most importantly, you need to see your eye doctor if you fail to find relief from chronic dry eyes.







To learn more about dry eye disease or to schedule an appointment, call Vision Center South at (888) 660-2738 to schedule at one of our offices in Brewton, Enterprise, Dothan, and Wetumpka, Alabama, or Marianna, Florida. 

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