How Do Weather, Air Quality, and Screen Time Impact Dry Eye?

Living in Lawrence, Kansas, you know how quickly the weather can change - one day it’s windy and dry, the next it’s hot and humid, or pollen counts are sky-high. These local conditions, combined with daily habits like long hours on digital devices, can take a toll on your eyes.

What Is Dry Eye?

Tears are essential for maintaining the health and comfort of your eyes. When the delicate balance of your tear film is disrupted, whether your eyes are not making enough tears or your tears evaporate too quickly, dry eye symptoms can appear. For many people, everyday habits and environmental conditions can have a major effect on both the quality and quantity of their tears.

How Lifestyle and Environment Contribute to Dry Eye

Seasonal changes can have a noticeable effect on dry eye. Cold winter air, especially when combined with indoor heating, can reduce humidity and cause your tears to evaporate more quickly. In contrast, windy or very hot environments can also dry out the eyes, leaving them irritated.

Pollution, smoke, and allergens in the air can all irritate the eyes and disrupt the tear film. Spending time in areas with poor air quality, whether you are outdoors during a high pollen season or indoors with dust, mold, or pet dander, can make dry eye symptoms worse. Even spending long periods of time in air conditioning or near fans can reduce moisture in the air and contribute to dryness.

Spending long hours staring at computers, tablets, or smartphones can dramatically reduce your blink rate. Blinking is essential to spreading tears evenly over the surface of your eyes. When you blink less, your eyes become more susceptible to dryness and discomfort, especially during extended periods of screen use.

Certain habits, such as not drinking enough water, excessive caffeine consumption, or wearing contact lenses for long hours, can also contribute to dry eye. Additionally, some medications and medical conditions may increase your risk.

What You Can Do to Manage Dry Eye

• Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air, especially in dry indoor environments, can help.
• Take screen breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule; every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
• Wear sunglasses: Protect your eyes from wind, sun, and airborne irritants.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Limit exposure: Reduce time spent in areas with poor air quality or high levels of dust and smoke.
• Practice good eye hygiene: Clean eyelids gently, especially if you wear makeup or have allergies.

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If you continue to experience dry, gritty, or irritated eyes despite making lifestyle adjustments, it may be time to seek professional care. Persistent dry eye can lead to complications if left untreated, including eye infections and damage to the cornea. Your eye doctor can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend tailored treatments, such as prescription eye drops, in-office procedures, or changes to your routine.

Ready to Find Relief from Dry Eye?

Dry eye is often influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors such as weather, air quality, and screen time. By understanding how these elements affect your eyes and making a few simple changes, you can reduce discomfort and protect your vision. However, if symptoms persist, professional evaluation and care are essential for long-term relief.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule an evaluation with Drs. Dobbins & Letourneau Eye Care for a personalized treatment plan. Contact our office in Lawrence, Kansas, by calling (785) 843-5665 to book an appointment today.