Living in Jackson, Mississippi, means dealing with hot summers and spending plenty of time indoors during allergy season. While these factors can affect your overall comfort, they can also impact your eye health, especially when it comes to dry eye. Understanding these factors is the first step in protecting your vision and maintaining healthy, comfortable eyes throughout the year.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes do not stay adequately lubricated, which can result from insufficient tear production, poor tear quality, or rapid tear evaporation. Common symptoms include a gritty, burning, or stinging sensation, redness and irritation, blurry or fluctuating vision, sensitivity to light, and the feeling that something is in your eye. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities, making it more difficult to read, use digital devices, or drive comfortably.
 

Lifestyle Choices That Contribute to Dry Eye

Certain habits and environments can increase your risk of developing or worsening dry eye:

• Prolonged Screen Time: Staring at computer, tablet, or phone screens for long periods can significantly reduce your blink rate, causing your eyes to dry out.

• Inadequate Hydration: Not drinking enough water leads to dehydration, which affects tear production and eye moisture.

• Exposure to Dry or Windy Environments: Air conditioning, heaters, fans, or spending a lot of time outdoors on windy days can dry out your eyes quickly.

• Poor Diet: Diets low in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts) may contribute to poor tear quality.

• Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Both smoking and excessive alcohol use are linked to decreased tear production and increased irritation.

• Use of Certain Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs, can reduce tear production.
 

How to Prevent Dry Eye

Fortunately, many lifestyle changes can help prevent or relieve dry eye symptoms:

• Take Regular Screen Breaks: Practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Adjust Your Environment: Use humidifiers indoors, and avoid direct air from fans or vents blowing toward your face.

• Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: This protects your eyes from wind and dry air.

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to support tear production.

• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Reducing these habits can help maintain eye health.
 

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If you experience persistent dryness, discomfort, or blurry vision, it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Our optometrists can thoroughly evaluate your eyes by checking your tear quality, tear production, and overall eye health. In many cases, conditions such as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) are at the root of dry eye. Pinpointing the specific cause is essential for effective treatment.

Once the cause is identified, your optometrist can create a personalized treatment plan. This may include prescription eye drops, in-office procedures, or recommendations for lifestyle changes. With a targeted approach, your eye doctor can help relieve your symptoms and protect your vision.
 

Experience Lasting Dry Eye Relief With Expert Care

Dry eye can be uncomfortable, but making small changes to your daily habits and being aware of risk factors can make a big difference. By taking steps to protect your eyes and seeking professional care when needed, you can maintain clear and comfortable vision.

If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms, contact Spectacles to schedule a consultation and find relief and keep your eyes healthy. Visit our office in Jackson, Mississippi, or call (601) 398-4662 to book an appointment today.