Crisp air, colorful leaves, and cooler mornings—fall in Livermore is a favorite time of year for many. But for some, these seasonal changes come with an unexpected downside: dry, itchy, or irritated eyes that make everything from morning walks to staring at a screen more uncomfortable than usual.
At Livermore Optometry Group, we offer personalized dry eye treatment plans to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Whether you're looking for relief through artificial tears, prescription options, or in-office procedures like punctal plugs, our eye care team is here to help you see and feel more clearly.
What Causes Dry Eyes in the Fall?
Fall is a peak season for dry eye flare-ups, especially for patients already managing ongoing symptoms. Weather changes, increased exposure to allergens, and shifts in daily habits all contribute to increased tear evaporation and reduced tear production.
For Livermore residents who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or visiting local vineyards, wind and dust can irritate the tear film that protects your eyes. At the same time, indoor heating systems kick in, lowering humidity and drying out the air you breathe.
Eye Allergies and Dry Eyes: What’s the Connection?
It’s common to confuse eye allergies in the fall with dry eye, but often, the two conditions overlap. Seasonal allergies can disrupt the tear film and inflame the meibomian glands, which produce the oils that help tears from evaporating too quickly. That’s why so many patients experience dry eye allergies this time of year.
Common triggers include:
- Ragweed pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold from fallen leaves
- Smoke from outdoor fires
At Livermore Optometry Group, we often see patients experiencing a dry eye flare that they thought was just allergies. Getting the proper diagnosis is the first step toward real relief.
How to Treat Dry Eyes in Fall Weather
Treating dry eyes in the fall means more than just eye drops. Our eye doctors at Livermore Optometry Group build customized treatment plans to help you manage symptoms through the entire season and beyond. Here's how you can manage dry eyes this fall:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps your body produce better quality tears. Even mild dehydration can lead to more discomfort during a dry eye flare.
2. Use Artificial Tears Regularly
Artificial tears add moisture and help protect the tear film. Preservative-free drops are often recommended for patients with sensitive eyes or long-term symptoms.
3. Minimize Allergen Exposure
Allergies and dry eyes go hand in hand. Keep windows closed, use air filters, and try a humidifier indoors to ease symptoms related to seasonal allergies.
4. Take Breaks from Screens
Prolonged screen time lowers your blink rate and increases tear evaporation. Following the 20-20-20 rule helps support natural tear production and reduce inflammation.
5. Ask About Punctal Plugs
For chronic cases, your eye doctor might recommend punctal plugs to help retain natural tears. These simple inserts are safe, effective, and covered by many vision insurance plans.
6. Book a Comprehensive Eye Exam
If you’re still struggling with symptoms, it’s time for a comprehensive eye exam. We’ll check your tear film, meibomian gland function, and screen for any underlying issues that may be affecting your eye health. From over-the-counter relief to prescription solutions, our team creates treatment plans that work with your lifestyle and actually provide lasting relief.
Helping Livermore See More Comfortably This Fall
At Livermore Optometry Group, we’ve been serving families in Livermore for over 70 years. Whether you’re a parent juggling school pick-ups, a senior navigating age-related vision changes, or a professional spending long hours on a screen, we’re here to support your comfort and long-term eye health.
Fall is a beautiful time of year—but it doesn’t have to come with itchy, dry eyes. Book your comprehensive eye exam, and our friendly, knowledgeable team will help you get back to seeing clearly and comfortably again.
Fall Dry Eye FAQs
Can allergies cause dry eyes or just make them worse?
Yes, seasonal allergies can both trigger and worsen dry eye symptoms. They affect tear quality, inflame the eyes, and can cause symptoms such as burning, grittiness, and blurred vision.
What is the best treatment for dry eye allergies in the fall?
The best approach depends on your triggers and severity. Artificial tears, environmental control, and in-office treatments like punctal plugs can all help. Start with a comprehensive eye exam to get the proper diagnosis.
How can I tell if I have dry eye or eye allergies?
Dry eye usually causes stinging, redness, and blurred vision, while allergies often involve itchiness and watery eyes. However, they can overlap. An eye exam at Livermore Optometry Group will help determine the exact cause.