The Worst Season for Dry Eyes: How Seasonal Changes Affect Your Eye Health

If you live in Oklahoma City, you’ve probably noticed that the weather here doesn’t like to stay in one place for long. One day, it’s warm and windy; the next, it’s freezing and dry. And while these constant shifts keep things interesting, they’re not so great for your eyes—especially if you suffer from dry eye syndrome. Whether it’s the dry winter air, the relentless Oklahoma wind, or allergy season in full swing, your eyes go through a lot. If they often feel irritated, gritty, or overly watery, seasonal changes could be to blame.

Why is Dry Eye So Common?

Oklahoma City isn’t exactly kind to those with sensitive eyes. Our climate plays a huge role in dry eye issues for a few key reasons. We’re no strangers to strong winds sweeping through town, especially in the fall and spring. That wind doesn’t just make for a bad hair day—it also dries out your tear film and carries allergens and dust that can irritate your eyes.

Oklahoma City also experiences dry air, particularly in the winter when artificial heating makes things worse. Without enough moisture in the air, your tears evaporate more quickly, leaving your eyes feeling scratchy and uncomfortable.

If you deal with seasonal allergies, you know how brutal they can be. Pollen, mold, and ragweed levels can wreak havoc on your eyes, making them red, watery, and irritated—all symptoms that overlap with dry eye.

How Seasonal Allergies Impact Dry Eye

Spring and fall bring high pollen counts to Oklahoma City, making these seasons particularly tough for dry eye sufferers. When allergens get into your eyes, they trigger an inflammatory response, leading to itchiness, redness, and excessive tearing.

Antihistamines, a common go-to for allergy relief, can also contribute to dryness by reducing tear production. So if you find yourself relying on allergy meds in the spring and fall, your dry eye symptoms may feel even worse.

When to See a Doctor

If you’re dealing with persistent dry eye symptoms, it’s time to seek professional help. Over-the-counter drops might provide temporary relief, but they don’t address the root cause of your discomfort. At Eyecare Boulevard, we offer personalized dry eye evaluations to determine what’s causing your symptoms and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.

Treatment options may include:

• Prescription eye drops to improve tear production

• In-office treatments to help your eyes retain moisture

• Lifestyle adjustments and targeted relief strategies for seasonal changes

Find Relief for Dry Eyes at Eyecare Boulevard

Living in Oklahoma City means unpredictable weather, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through dry, irritated eyes all year long. At Eyecare Boulevard, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye syndrome so you can get back to feeling comfortable—no matter the season.

If you’re battling with dry eye and allergies, schedule a consultation with Eyecare Boulevard for a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Visit our office in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, or call (405) 437-0763 to book an appointment today.