As the leaves change colour and the temperatures begin to drop, it’s not just your wardrobe that needs adjusting — your eye care routine might need some attention too. The shift from warm to cooler weather during fall and winter can bring various challenges to your eye health.

Here are five seasonal changes that can affect your eyes and practical tips on how to protect your vision during this time.

1. Dry Air and Dry Eyes

One of the most common issues people experience during the colder months is dry eyes. As temperatures drop, the air becomes drier, particularly when you spend time indoors with heating systems running. This lack of moisture in the air can cause your eyes to lose hydration, leading to symptoms like itchiness, redness, and irritation.

Tip: To combat dry eyes, try using a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air, especially in rooms where you spend the most time. Additionally, artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help alleviate dryness and provide much-needed hydration. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining eye moisture.

2. Cold Winds and Increased Irritation

Cold winds can be harsh on your eyes, causing irritation and tearing. The wind strips moisture from the surface of your eyes and exposes them to allergens and debris, which can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, inflammation.

Tip: To protect your eyes from the wind, consider wearing wraparound sunglasses when you’re outside. Not only do they shield your eyes from the wind, but they also offer protection from UV rays, which remain a threat even on overcast days. If you wear contact lenses, this additional protection is especially important, as the wind can dry out your lenses more quickly.

3. Increased Screen Time Indoors

As the weather cools, people tend to spend more time indoors, often increasing their screen time. Whether it’s working from home, streaming movies, or catching up on emails, extended exposure to screens can lead to digital eye strain. Symptoms of digital eye strain include headaches, blurred vision, and tired eyes.

Tip: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Adjust your screen’s brightness and positioning, and consider using blue light-blocking glasses to reduce the impact of screens on your eyes.

4. UV Exposure Doesn’t Disappear

While UV rays are most associated with summer, they can be just as harmful during the fall and winter. In fact, UV rays can reflect off surfaces like snow and ice, intensifying the exposure to your eyes. Prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of developing cataracts and other long-term eye health issues.

Tip: Continue wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection throughout the year, even when it’s cloudy. Look for polarized lenses to reduce glare, especially if you’re spending time near water or snow, as these surfaces can reflect a significant amount of UV light.

5. Allergens and Irritants

Fall brings a unique set of allergens, such as mold and ragweed, which can cause eye allergies. If you’re prone to seasonal allergies, you may experience itchy, watery, or red eyes during the fall months, making it uncomfortable to be outdoors or in environments with allergens.

Tip: Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation. Use over-the-counter allergy eye drops to manage symptoms, and wear glasses or sunglasses outside to help shield your eyes from airborne allergens. Keeping windows closed and using an air purifier indoors can also reduce exposure to allergens.

Protect Your Vision this Fall!

Seasonal changes can have a significant impact on your eyes, from dry air and wind to increased screen time and allergens. However, by making a few simple adjustments to your eye care routine, you can protect your vision and ensure your eyes stay comfortable during the cooler months.