If your eyes feel gritty, tired, watery, or irritated, you’re not alone. Dry eye symptoms are some of the most common concerns brought up during eye exams, especially this time of year. Dry eye disease is complex, but one of the biggest contributing factors, and one that’s often within our control, is our environment. During the warmer months, there are several environmental triggers that can make symptoms worse. Understanding how the environment affects your eyes can help you make small changes that improve comfort and protect your eye health over time.

Dry eye happens when your eyes either don’t make enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. The tear film has several layers that help keep vision clear, provide moisture, and protect against irritants. When that balance is disrupted, you might notice burning, stinging, blurry vision, extra tearing, light sensitivity, or a gritty feeling. Environmental factors often worsen symptoms by destabilizing this delicate tear film.

Airflow

Moving air is a common, but often overlooked, trigger. Air conditioning, heating vents, ceiling fans, and car vents can all cause tears to evaporate more quickly, especially when they blow directly on your face. As we shift between winter heat and summer air conditioning, our eyes experience this drying effect year-round. To reduce irritation, direct vents away from your face, lower fan speeds when possible, and wear sunglasses outdoors on windy days. This is especially important for contact lens wearers, since dry air can make lenses uncomfortable and reduce how long they can be worn comfortably.

Screen Time

Digital device use is another major contributor. Many of us spend hours on computers, phones, or watching TV for both work and relaxation. When focusing on screens, we tend to blink less – and often incompletely – which means the eyes don’t get the moisture they need. Over time, this can leave them feeling dry and irritated. Taking regular breaks, remembering to blink fully, and positioning screens slightly below eye level can help. The 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds) is a simple way to build that habit.

Humidity and Seasonal Changes

Changes in humidity and seasonal routines also affect eye comfort. Indoor heating during colder months lowers humidity, while spring and summer often bring more air conditioning, dust, and increased allergens. Opening windows, spending more time outdoors, or even transitioning wardrobes and bedding can stir up pollen and debris. Using a humidifier at night, staying well hydrated, managing allergies, and limiting exposure during high pollen times can all help keep symptoms under control.

Air Quality

Air quality is another factor that can irritate sensitive eyes. Smoke (including cigarette smoke), pollen, yard debris, cleaning sprays, and other airborne pollutants can cause discomfort, even with short-term exposure. When possible, try to avoid these irritants and wear protective glasses during yard work to prevent ocular injuries and corneal abrasions.

The Most Important Step

The simplest step to protecting your eyes this season? Schedule an eye exam. A routine visit can identify dryness, irritation, or early signs of other conditions. Your doctor can recommend personalized treatment options based on your specific needs. From artificial tears and small lifestyle adjustments to more advanced therapies, there are many ways to manage dry eye and keep your eyes comfortable throughout the warmer months.