Why do your eyes get more tired in the spring?

Often thought to be simply spring fatigue, eye health is actually affected by a number of environmental and lifestyle factors at once.

More light means more strain on the eyes

After a long, dark winter, the amount of light we see increases very quickly in spring. The days are getting longer and the intensity of UV radiation is increasing. The eyes need to adapt to naturally brighter light and stronger contrasts.

This means:
– the pupils are more active,
– the muscles in the eye are working harder,
– temporary photosensitivity is increased,
– the eyes may get tired faster.

 People who spend a large part of their day in front of a screen or indoors in artificial light are particularly affected. When the eyes are used to a stable lighting environment, the bright spring sunshine can seem unexpectedly intense.

Screens affect the natural moisture level in the eyes

Studies have shown that looking at a screen significantly reduces the frequency of blinking. While the normal blink rate is about 15-20 times a minute, this can be reduced by about half when we are looking at a screen.

As a result:
• the tear film evaporates faster,
• the surface of the eye dries more,
• there is stinging and burning,
• vision may fluctuate throughout the day.

The dryness of your eyes that develops during the winter does not automatically disappear when spring arrives. The heating season, dry indoor air and long working days also have an impact on eye moisture levels in spring.

Why do your eyes water in the spring?

Many people experience a paradoxical situation in the spring – their eyes feel dry and watery at the same time.

This is often caused by irritation of the eye surface. Wind, pollen, dust and dry air weaken the tear film, which triggers a protective reflex in the eye to produce more tears. However, these tears do not moisten the eye effectively enough, so discomfort may persist.

Spring allergies also affect the eyes

In spring, the amount of pollen in the air increases and can also cause allergic symptoms in the eyes.

Typical complaints are:
– itching,
– redness,
– watering,
– a feeling of swelling,
– increased sensitivity to light.

People who wear contact lenses may experience more severe allergy symptoms because pollen and other particles attach more easily to the lens surface.

Nutrition plays a bigger role in eye health than is often thought.

A number of essential nutrients support normal eye function.

– Vitamin A – helps to maintain eye surface health and normal vision.
– Vitamins C and E – help protect cells from oxidative stress.
– Lutein and zeaxanthin – support the health of the fundus oculi and retina.
– Omega-3 fatty acids – help improve tear film quality and reduce dryness.

How to support your eyes before summer?

– Wear good-quality sunglasses with UV protection when outdoors.
– Take regular breaks when working with a screen.
– Make sure to blink more often.
– Use moisturising eye drops if necessary.
– Avoid very windy and dusty environments.
– Eat a balanced diet.
– Check your vision regularly.

If dryness, stinging or fatigue persists for a longer period, it is advisable to consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Sometimes similar symptoms can also indicate a change in vision or a worsening dry eye problem.

Why is it important to address dry eye?

Dry eye syndrome is chronic. It can be an irritating but tolerable issue at first. However, more often than not, the dry eye problem worsens and can have a serious impact on both eye health and overall quality of life. Prolonged dry eyes can lead to chronic eye inflammation and worsen discomfort.

Eye health is an important part of quality of life.
Read more: https://www.prooptika.ee/kuiva-silma-kabinet