Anyone who hikes the Hot Springs Trail in the Montecito foothills knows the sundowners: the warm, dry downslope winds that can rush off the Santa Ynez Mountains in the evening. They are part of life on this stretch of coast, and for many residents, they come with burning, gritty, watery eyes.
What dry eye is
MedlinePlus, from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, explains that tears moisten the eyes and wash away particles, and that a healthy tear film is needed for good vision. Dry eye develops when the eye cannot maintain that healthy coating of tears. It commonly occurs in otherwise healthy people and becomes more common with age, partly because of hormonal changes.
Common causes
- Dry environments, wind and air conditioning
- Sun exposure
- Smoking or secondhand smoke
- Cold or allergy medicines
- Contact lens wear
- Inflammation of the eyelid oil glands
Symptoms
Blurred vision; burning, itching or redness; a gritty or scratchy feeling; and sensitivity to light. Some people with dry eye also notice watery eyes, a reflex response to the irritation.
What helps
MedlinePlus says artificial tears are the first step. Preserved drops are convenient, but some people are sensitive to preservatives. Start with at least 2 to 4 times a day. If you are not better after a couple of weeks, use them more often (up to every 2 hours with preservative-free drops), switch to preservative-free, or try another brand. Your doctor may also suggest prescription drops, tiny plugs in the tear drainage ducts, or other treatments.
Everyday steps
- Wear wraparound sunglasses on windy evenings and trail days.
- Use a humidifier at home, especially in winter.
- Avoid smoke and direct wind or air conditioning on your face.
- Take blinking breaks during screen time and reading.
Start with a video visit
Our office is in Westlake Village, about 60 miles down the 101 from Montecito, so I prefer not to ask anyone to make that drive without a good reason. A free VIP video consult lets us talk through your symptoms and history and decide together whether an in-person exam is worthwhile. Call (805) 230-2126.
If grandchildren are visiting with itchy, rubbed eyes, this children’s eye health blog has guidance for parents.
The sundowners are not going anywhere. With the right routine, your eyes do not have to suffer through them.
Source: Dry eye syndrome (MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, U.S. National Library of Medicine). This article is an educational summary written by Khanna Vision Institute and is not a substitute for medical advice.
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