As the crisp air of fall rolls in, so do unique challenges for our eye health. Between drier indoor air, seasonal allergies, and increased screen time, many people experience irritation, fatigue, or dryness that can make daily life uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are simple ways to protect your vision, and Mark Alyn sits down with Dr. Elise Kramer, a Harvard-trained eye health expert, to discover how to keep your eyes feeling refreshed throughout the season.

Dry Air & Heating Systems
When temperatures drop, heaters go on—and humidity levels plummet. Dry indoor air pulls moisture from your eyes, leaving them irritated or gritty. Dr. Elise Kramer, a Harvard-trained eye health expert, recommends using a humidifier to restore moisture in your home and following the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes of screen use, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Ragweed Allergies
Fall is peak season for ragweed pollen, a major trigger for itchy, watery eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis can make it difficult to focus, especially outdoors. Dr. Kramer suggests wearing wraparound sunglasses to block pollen and using preservative-free artificial tears to flush irritants from your eyes. If symptoms persist, over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops may help.

Screen Fatigue
Shorter daylight hours often mean longer evenings indoors—often spent in front of computers, phones, and TVs. Extended screen time can cause digital eye strain, leading to headaches and blurred vision. Dr. Kramer advises adjusting screen brightness to match your environment, keeping screens at least 20 inches away, and ensuring you blink frequently to keep your eyes lubricated.

Fall is a beautiful season, but it does bring eye health challenges. With a few proactive steps—like humidifying your home, guarding against allergens, and managing screen use—you can keep your vision clear and comfortable. Thanks for joining us for this timely conversation with Dr. Elise Kramer.