Dry Air, Indoor Heating & Your Eyes: What Happens When Fall Turns to Winter
As the colorful leaves fade and Sevierville temperatures drop, you may notice your eyes feeling itchy, gritty, or unusually dry. It’s not your imagination—fall and winter bring big changes for your eyes. The cooler air outside and heated indoor environments inside can combine to create the perfect recipe for dry eye discomfort.
At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, we often see patients this time of year who experience increased dryness, irritation, or even blurry vision. Here’s what’s happening—and what you can do to keep your eyes comfortable all season long.
Why Your Eyes Feel Drier in Fall and Winter
When the weather turns cooler, humidity levels naturally drop. Add in indoor heating, ceiling fans, and car defrosters, and your eyes lose moisture faster than they can replace it.
- Cold outdoor air is often dry and windy, which accelerates tear evaporation.
- Indoor heating systems pull moisture from the air, making it hard for your eyes to stay lubricated.
- Increased screen time during shorter days can reduce blinking frequency—another key contributor to dryness.
If you’ve had LASIK or other refractive procedures, or if you wear contact lenses, you may notice dryness even more.
Recognizing the Signs of Dry Eye
Dry eye can look different for everyone, but some of the most common symptoms include:
- A burning or stinging sensation
- Redness or a feeling of grittiness
- Watery eyes (yes—sometimes your eyes overproduce tears when they’re dry!)
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Eye fatigue after reading or screen use
Left untreated, chronic dry eye can lead to inflammation, discomfort, and even damage to the eye’s surface—so it’s worth addressing early.
Tips to Soothe and Prevent Dry Eyes This Season
Here are some practical ways to protect your vision and comfort as the weather cools:
- Use a Humidifier: Add moisture back into the air at home, especially in bedrooms and living spaces.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body—and your tear glands—stay balanced.
- Take Screen Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: Shield your eyes from wind and glare when you’re out in Sevierville’s crisp fall air.
- Use Artificial Tears: Lubricating drops can relieve dryness; our doctors can recommend the best type for your eyes.
- Avoid Direct Airflow: Don’t aim car vents, ceiling fans, or space heaters directly at your face.
When to See an Eye Doctor for Dry Eye in Sevierville, TN
If dryness persists or worsens, it’s time to schedule an eye exam. Persistent dry eye can sometimes indicate underlying issues with tear production, eyelid health, or even systemic conditions.
At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, our Sevierville team can perform a comprehensive dry eye evaluation. We offer customized treatment options, including medicated drops, in-office therapies, and lifestyle recommendations tailored to your specific needs.
Protect Your Vision Year-Round
Don’t let fall and winter dryness dull your vision. With a few proactive steps—and guidance from your local eye care specialists—you can enjoy Sevierville’s beautiful season in comfort and clarity.
Dry Eye Sevierville, TN
Schedule your eye exam today at our Sevierville office to keep your eyes healthy and hydrated all year long.