People are careful to protect their eyes during summer and spring. Many of them wear hats and sunglasses. In the fall, people do not show much concern. They risk developing eye problems that could affect the quality of life.
Here are the common fall eye problems:
1. Dry Eyes
In autumn, the air is drier and colder. Dry air rubs off moisture from your eyes and skin, causing them to dry out. On windy days, the problem is worse. With colder days, it is also likely that you will be using a heating system indoors. The heat dries the indoor air too. With constant exposure to dry air, your eyes become dry.
Dry eyes are quite irritating. They itch, blink excessively, are sensitive to light, and the vision turns blurry. Your eyes turn red, feel fatigued, and have a burning sensation.
You could treat eye dryness with over-the-counter eye drops. The eye drops to stimulate tear production to keep your eyes moist. Also, some are put on the tear ducts to reduce tear drainage. A humidifier will also ensure that the air inside your home remains humid. If the dryness persists, consult with an optometrist.
2. Autumn Ultraviolet (UV) Light
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Sunglasses are not just for the warm summer when the sun is hot. The sun sends out UV rays that could hurt your eyes and skin all year round. In the summer, the sun is overhead, but the sun shines from an angle in the fall. Unlike during the summer, when your brow bone and the eyebrows protect your eyes from the sun’s rays, the eyes are directly exposed to solar radiation in the fall. The direct contact irritates the eyes and strains them. People driving become blinded and could easily cause accidents. Over time, UV light exposure damages the optic nerve.
The solution to autumn UV light exposure is to put on sunglasses when outdoors, even when the sun is not shining brightly. On sunny days, put on a wide-brimmed hat. Protecting your eyes today will keep you from getting cancers and cataracts in the future.
3. Shorter Days
Days become shorter as the season progresses. If you leave home for work early and return in the evening, your commute will be in the dark. As people drive with their headlights on, some are too bright and strain your eyes. Research also shows that reduced sunlight disrupts your body’s normal rhythms. The lesser the light stimulus to the brain, the lower your mood will be. Your downcast feeling in the morning could be a factor of the lighting. Areas with dim lighting also make it difficult to see the road ahead, causing you to strain.
Consider getting some anti-glare glasses for when you drive. Keep them clean and avoid smudges because they make it difficult to see.
4. Winter Allergies
People are prone to allergies in the fall. There is lots of pollen from the flowers and dust from decaying leaves. Animal dander and mites also increase when the weather is cold and cause allergic reactions. When these irritants get to your eyes, they itch.
The solution would be to ensure that your living space has good ventilation. Open the windows and doors for a while and let some air blow through the rooms. The fresh air reduces the concentration of allergens.
Along with taking care of your eyes in the fall, an eye exam will ensure that your eyes are in good shape. Visit Abraham Eye Associates in Villanova, Pennsylvania. You can also call to book your appointment.
