How Environment & Lifestyle Affect Dry Eye

Dry eye is a common and often frustrating condition that can make everyday activities uncomfortable. While some people associate dry eye with aging or eye health alone, environmental and lifestyle factors play a significant role in both causing and worsening symptoms. Understanding these triggers can help you protect your eyes and recognize when it’s time to seek professional care.

 

Environmental Factors That Contribute to Dry Eye

Your surroundings have a direct impact on how well your eyes stay lubricated. Dry or windy climates can cause tears to evaporate more quickly, leaving the eyes feeling dry and irritated. This is especially common in areas with low humidity or frequent wind exposure.

 

Air conditioning and heating systems reduce moisture in the air, which can accelerate tear evaporation indoors - particularly in offices, homes, and cars.

 

Smoke, pollution, and allergens irritate the surface of the eyes and disrupt the tear film, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Even short-term exposure can trigger dry eye symptoms in sensitive individuals.

 

Lifestyle Habits That Can Worsen Dry Eye

Daily habits also play a major role in dry eye development. Prolonged screen time is one of the most common contributors. When staring at screens, people blink less frequently, which prevents tears from spreading evenly across the eye’s surface.

 

Contact lens wear, especially for extended periods, can interfere with natural tear distribution and increase dryness.

 

Poor hydration and nutrition can affect tear production. Not drinking enough water or lacking essential nutrients may reduce tear quality and quantity.

 

Certain medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can have drying effects on the eyes as a side effect.

 

When Dry Eye Becomes More Than a Nuisance

Occasional dryness may improve with simple changes like taking screen breaks or using artificial tears. However, persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying issue such as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where the oil glands in the eyelids don’t function properly.

 

You should schedule an eye exam if you experience:

• Ongoing dryness, burning, or gritty sensations

• Redness or excessive tearing

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Little to no relief from over-the-counter eye drops

 

Our eye doctor can determine the root cause of your symptoms and recommend targeted treatment rather than temporary solutions.

 

Advanced Dry Eye Treatment Options

For patients with chronic or moderate to severe dry eye, advanced treatments may be needed. One effective option is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy.

 

IPL treatment works by gently applying light pulses to the skin around the eyes, helping reduce inflammation and improve the function of the meibomian glands. This can lead to healthier tear composition and longer-lasting relief for patients with evaporative dry eye caused by MGD.

 

Unlike artificial tears that only address symptoms, IPL targets the underlying cause of dry eye, making it a valuable option for patients who haven’t found relief with conventional treatments.

 

Schedule a Dry Eye Evaluation Today

Environmental exposure and everyday lifestyle habits play a significant role in dry eye symptoms, often making the condition worse over time. While small changes can help manage mild dryness, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. With a proper diagnosis and access to advanced treatments, long-term relief is possible.

 

If dry, irritated eyes are interfering with your daily life, schedule a dry eye evaluation at Clear View Vision Center today. Contact our office in American Fork or Lehi, Utah, by calling (801) 756-4731 to book an appointment.