With fall just around the corner, it’s the perfect moment to talk about caring for your eyes as the seasons shift. As daylight shortens and the air becomes cooler, many people notice changes in their eyes. The fall season brings its own challenges, including wildfire smoke, dry indoor air, and unexpected exposure to the sun.
Here’s what you should know to keep your eyes comfortable and protected this season:
1. Manage your dry eyes:
As a result of dry air, eyes can feel gritty and uncomfortable, especially when outdoor air quality is lowered. It is recommended that you keep your windows closed on smoky days and use an air purifier or air conditioner to keep your eyes protected from pollution. Also, for dryness, try using artificial tears to bring relief quickly.
2. UV Protection:
After the weather cools off, it can be easy to forget sunglasses, but UV rays are still present even in the cooler months. The need for sunglasses is no different from the need for sunscreen on crisp, sunny days, especially when light is refracting off the leaves or trees. Over time, UV exposure can damage the eyes, so wearing protective eyewear year-round is ideal.
3. 20-20-20 Rule:
Cooler days often mean more indoor screen time, whether for work, school, or leisure. We encourage the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This small habit helps reduce eye strain and fatigue.
4. Schedule Your Fall Eye Exam:
Fall often brings “back to school” routines, making it a good time to remember your yearly eye check-up. In Ontario, eye exams are covered by OHIP for children and teens under the age of 19, but regular check-ups are invaluable for people of all ages. Think of it as a healthy reset before winter arrives.
Bottom Line:
You can prepare your eyes for the new season with just a few new habits, including using artificial tears, protecting your eyes against UV rays, taking screen breaks, and keeping appointments.
For more information, concerns or inquiries or to book your next eye exam, get in touch with inFocus Vision Care. It all begins with you taking care of your eyes!
