Most people understand the importance of protecting their eyes during the summer. Wearing sunglasses and hats to protect your eyes from the sun is great. However, you should not ignore your eyes during the fall. Protecting your eyes is just as important during fall when dry air, UV light, and allergens can affect your eyes. Many people run the risk of developing eye problems during this time.
 

Eye issues can have a negative effect on the quality of life that you enjoy. The following are some fall eye problems that you may find yourself experiencing.
 

Having Dry Eyes

During the fall, the air is colder and drier. This dry air can rob moisture from your skin and eyes, causing the eyes to dry out. The problem becomes worse during windy days. During cold days, you are likely to spend most of your time indoors. This means that you are most likely using a heating system. The heat from the system dries the air in the house.
 

This continuous exposure to dry air will cause your eyes to become dry. Dry eyes tend to be very irritating. This will force you to blink excessively, itch, and experience sensitivity to light. You may find yourself experiencing blurry vision, and your eyes feel fatigued. You also end up with red eyes and a burning sensation.
 

Ultraviolet (UV) Light

The sun produces UV rays not just during summer but all year round. The rays can be harmful, and they can hurt the eyes and the skin. During summer, the sun shines from an overhead position. This means that the brow bone and brows can offer some protection for the eyes. However, during the fall, the sun’s rays approach at an angle, and the eyes are exposed directly. This direct contact can irritate and strain the eyes. Direct UV light exposure will damage the optic nerve over time.
 

Shorter Daylight Hours

The shorter fall days mean that your morning and evening commute is in the dark. Driving during the dark means headlights from the passing vehicles. Most people tend to drive with bright headlights on. This means you are straining your eyes every time you are on the road. When you are in areas with poor or dim lighting, seeing the road becomes difficult, and you end up straining your eyes. If you wear glasses or contacts, you should invest in some anti-glare lenses to reduce the effect of headlight glare.
 

Season Allergies

Fall often means flowers and fallen leaves, which translates into allergies. With all the dust and pollen in the air, allergies are very common. The weather also attracts mites and animal dander that can cause allergies. When irritants in the air get into the eyes, they itch. Having less ventilation in the home or office reduces the circulation of air, which can make the situation worse. Keeping doors and windows open can help to ensure that you have plenty of fresh air.
 

Make sure that you protect your eyes when raking leaves or working outdoors. Pieces of blowing leaves and other plant material can easily get into the eyes. Avoid wearing non-prescription contacts, especially during Halloween.
 

To know more about eye problems, visit Optical Masters at any of our offices in Denver, Colorado. You can also call (720) 780-8881, (720) 780-9970, or (720) 782-2190 to book an appointment today.