5 Common Dry Eye Triggers to Avoid

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that causes irritation, redness, burning, and a gritty feeling in the eyes. For many people, these symptoms can come and go — but they can also worsen under certain circumstances. Identifying and avoiding common triggers can help reduce discomfort and protect your long-term eye health. At Tres Vision Group in Melbourne, our board-certified eye doctors help patients across Brevard County, including Merritt Island, find relief from dry eye with advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans.

1. Environmental Factors

One of the most common causes of dry eye flare-ups is your environment. Dry, windy, or smoky air can strip moisture from the eyes, causing them to feel irritated. Air conditioning and heating systems also lower humidity levels indoors, which can contribute to symptoms. To minimize exposure:

• Use a humidifier at home or work
• Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to block wind and UV rays
• Avoid direct airflow from car vents, fans, or heaters toward your face

2. Screen Time and Reduced Blinking

Spending long hours on computers, tablets, or phones can make dry eye worse. Studies show people blink less frequently while focusing on screens, which allows tears to evaporate more quickly. Try following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, and make a conscious effort to blink more often.

3. Contact Lens Wear

While contact lenses are safe for many patients, they can sometimes contribute to dryness by reducing oxygen flow to the cornea or absorbing moisture from the eye’s surface. If you notice increased irritation while wearing contacts, consult your eye doctor about lubricating drops, daily disposable lenses, or whether it’s time to explore alternatives such as LASIK or PRK.

4. Medications and Health Conditions

Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, and some antidepressants, can reduce tear production. Hormonal changes, autoimmune diseases, and diabetes can also contribute to chronic dryness. Share your full medical and medication history with your eye doctor so they can tailor a treatment plan that considers these factors.

5. Smoking and Secondhand Smoke

Smoke exposure is a well-documented irritant for the eyes. It damages the tear film and can exacerbate symptoms of dry eye. Quitting smoking and avoiding smoky environments are important steps for both eye and overall health.

Get Lasting Relief for Dry Eye in Melbourne, FL

Avoiding triggers can help reduce irritation, but many patients with chronic dry eye need more than lifestyle changes. At Tres Vision Group, we offer LipiFlow®, an advanced, in-office treatment designed to address the root cause of dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). This gentle, FDA-approved therapy uses heat and massage to unclog blocked oil glands, restoring a healthy tear film and providing long-term relief.

Contact us at (321) 984-3200 to schedule your dry eye evaluation and learn if LipiFlow is right for you. We proudly serve patients in Melbourne, Merritt Island, and throughout Brevard County.