The shift from summer to fall brings cooler temperatures, windier days, and more time spent indoors. Heaters start blasting, humidity drops, and your eyes begin to dry out — especially if you already spend long hours in front of screens.
Common environmental triggers this season include:
- Dry indoor air from heating systems
- Cooler winds irritating the ocular surface
- Less frequent blinking during screen time
- Exposure to allergens like dust and mould
This combination makes fall and early winter the perfect storm for dry eyes, especially in Surrey, where weather changes can be swift and dramatic.
What Are the Most Common Dry Eye Symptoms?
You may not even realise your eyes are dry — the symptoms often show up as general discomfort. Some of the most frequent complaints include:
- A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
- Blurry vision that improves with blinking
- Redness, especially later in the day
- Light sensitivity or discomfort in bright environments
- Tearing — yes, dry eyes can actually water more than normal
If this sounds familiar, you may be one of the millions dealing with Dry Eye Disease — and seasonal shifts could be making it worse.
How Can an Optometrist Diagnose Dry Eye?
A qualified dry eye doctor or optometrist will begin by discussing your symptoms and environment. At Clayton Heights Optometry, we conduct a thorough assessment that may include:
- Checking tear quantity and quality
- Examining the meibomian glands that help keep tears stable
- Looking for signs of inflammation or surface damage
- Discussing screen time, climate exposure, and overall eye habits
Unlike over-the-counter eye drops that only offer short-term relief, a professional diagnosis helps us create a treatment plan tailored to your eyes, lifestyle, and seasonal needs.
What Dry Eye Treatments Actually Work?
While drugstore drops may offer temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause of dry eye. At Clayton Heights Optometry, we offer several evidence-based options that provide longer-lasting results, including:
- Prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation and improve tear stability
- Punctal plugs that help retain your natural tears
- Meibomian gland therapy for patients with oil deficiency in their tear film
- Thermal or light-based treatments to clear blocked tear ducts
- Lifestyle and nutrition guidance, including supplements that support tear production
Your treatment plan may include one or a combination of these solutions, depending on the severity of your condition and the environmental factors at play.
Can I Do Anything at Home to Prevent Dry Eye in the Fall?
Absolutely. Prevention plays a key role in managing dry eye symptoms — especially during transitional seasons. Here are a few strategies that make a big difference:
- Use a humidifier indoors to combat dry heating systems
- Wear wraparound sunglasses when outdoors to shield against wind
- Take regular screen breaks to encourage blinking
- Stay hydrated — your eyes need water, too
- Limit exposure to fans, vents, or direct air flow on your face
If your symptoms persist despite these changes, it’s time to book with a dry eye optometrist who can personalize your care.
Where Can I Find a Dry Eye Doctor Near Me?
Right here. At Clayton Heights Optometry, we help patients in Surrey and surrounding communities find relief from dry eye — whether it’s seasonal or chronic. With advanced diagnostic tools and a team that truly listens, we’ll get to the root of what’s making your eyes feel off.
Fall might be beautiful, but dry eye isn’t. Don’t let discomfort get in the way of enjoying crisp walks, cozy reading time, or long days at your desk.