Atlanta AC: Is "Clean" Air Causing Dry Eyes?
By Franklin Everett ShawIt’s not just the pollen that’s making your eyes feel like sandpaper in Atlanta. While the city’s notorious allergy season gets a lot of blame, there’s another culprit lurking in nearly every home and office: air conditioning.
The constant blast of cool air, while a welcome relief from the Georgia heat, can wreak havoc on your eyes, leading to chronic dry eye. This is especially true given the types of HVAC systems prevalent in Atlanta and the specific ways we tend to use them.
Atlanta’s older housing stock often features forced-air systems, which are notorious for circulating dry air. These systems pull moisture out of the air as they cool it, and that dry air then gets pumped throughout your home or office.
Think about it: you crank up the AC to combat the humidity, but you’re inadvertently creating an even drier environment indoors. This is a double whammy for your eyes.
So, what can you do to combat this Atlanta-specific dry eye problem? It’s not about ditching the AC altogether (let’s be realistic!), but about mitigating its drying effects.
First, let’s talk about humidifiers. Don’t just grab any humidifier off the shelf at the nearest Target. Consider a cool mist humidifier. These are generally better for smaller spaces and won’t raise the temperature in your already air-conditioned room.
Specifically, look for the Honeywell HCM350 Germ Free Cool Mist Humidifier. It’s readily available at most Targets and Walmarts in the Atlanta area (check the Perimeter location or the one in Buckhead). It’s a good option because it uses UV light to kill bacteria in the water, preventing mold growth, a common problem with humidifiers.
Another solid choice, often found at the Home Depot near Cumberland Mall, is the Levoit LV600HH Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier. This one offers both cool and warm mist options, giving you more control.
The key is to maintain a humidity level between 30-50%. You can buy a simple hygrometer (humidity monitor) at any hardware store, like the Ace Hardware on Piedmont Road, to keep track.
Now, let’s talk about your HVAC system itself. Most forced-air systems have adjustable vents. Make sure the vents aren’t pointed directly at your face, especially while you’re sleeping or working at your desk.
This direct airflow exacerbates dryness. Instead, angle the vents upwards or towards the sides to circulate the air more evenly.
Another often-overlooked aspect is filter maintenance. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC unit to work harder and dry the air even more. Change your filter regularly – at least every three months, or even more frequently during peak allergy season. You can find a wide selection of filters at any Lowe’s or Home Depot in the Atlanta area.
Beyond environmental adjustments, consider your eye care routine. Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide temporary relief. However, not all eye drops are created equal.
Avoid drops with preservatives, as these can irritate your eyes with prolonged use. Look for preservative-free options like Systane Ultra Preservative-Free or Refresh Optive Mega-3 Preservative-Free. You can find these at most CVS or Walgreens locations in Atlanta.
For more severe dry eye, consider seeing an ophthalmologist. They can assess the underlying cause of your dryness and recommend prescription treatments like Restasis or Xiidra. Many reputable ophthalmology practices are located in the Emory University area.
One common mistake people make is assuming that all dry eye is the same. It’s not. Some people have aqueous deficiency (lack of tear production), while others have evaporative dry eye (tears evaporate too quickly).
The type of treatment that works best depends on the specific type of dry eye you have. An ophthalmologist can help you determine which type you have and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Another pitfall is relying solely on eye drops. While eye drops can provide temporary relief, they don’t address the underlying cause of the dryness. Addressing the environmental factors, like the dry air from your AC, is crucial for long-term relief.
Consider this scenario: You work in a downtown Atlanta office building with a centralized HVAC system. You have no control over the temperature or humidity. In this case, a desktop humidifier is your best friend.
The Pure Enrichment MistAire Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is a compact and affordable option that’s perfect for office use. You can find it on Amazon or at Bed Bath & Beyond (if any are still open!).
Also, talk to your building management about adjusting the humidity levels in the building. It’s possible they can make adjustments to improve the overall air quality.
Finally, remember to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your body, including your eyes, hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you throughout the day and refill it regularly.
Don’t let Atlanta’s air conditioning steal your comfort. By understanding the specific challenges posed by our local HVAC systems and implementing these targeted solutions, you can keep your eyes happy and healthy, even during the hottest Georgia summers.