Taos Tears: Altitude Lies Cracking Senior Eyes?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 27, 2026

The sting of dry eyes in the high desert isn’t just a minor annoyance; it’s a constant battle. For seniors in Taos, New Mexico, this battle is often waged on multiple fronts, with the arid climate, age-related changes, and even necessary medications conspiring against them. But surrender isn’t an option. Let’s arm you with the knowledge and strategies to reclaim comfort and clarity.

Dry eye isn’t just about a lack of tears; it’s about tear quality and stability. In Taos, the already low humidity is further depleted by wood-burning stoves in the winter, creating an environment that sucks moisture from everything, including your eyes. This leads to rapid tear evaporation, leaving the eye surface vulnerable and irritated.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your personalized dry eye defense plan, specifically tailored for the Taos environment:

Step 1: Assess Your Personal Risk Factors

It’s not just the altitude; it’s your altitude. What makes your dry eye unique?

Medications: Many medications common among seniors, such as antihistamines, diuretics (for blood pressure), beta-blockers (for heart conditions), and even some antidepressants, can significantly reduce tear production. Keep a detailed list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, and discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist. Ask specifically if any are known to exacerbate dry eye. Don’t just accept a generic “maybe.” Ask for alternatives if possible. For example, if you’re taking a diuretic, could you explore lifestyle changes to reduce your reliance on it?
Underlying Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and thyroid disorders are often linked to dry eye. If you have any autoimmune conditions, ensure they are well-managed, as this can directly impact tear production.
Diet: A diet lacking in omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to dry eye. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods and inflammatory fats can worsen symptoms.
Lifestyle: Do you spend a lot of time reading, using a computer, or watching TV? These activities reduce blinking frequency, leading to tear evaporation. Do you wear contact lenses? Improper lens care or ill-fitting lenses can exacerbate dry eye.
Home Environment: How dry is your home? Do you use a humidifier? What type of heating system do you have? Forced-air systems are notorious for drying out the air.

Step 2: Environmental Adjustments: Your Taos Oasis

Transform your home into a haven of moisture.

Humidification is Non-Negotiable: Invest in a good quality humidifier, especially for your bedroom. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60%. Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity. Don’t rely on guesswork. Consider a whole-house humidifier if you have forced-air heating.
Strategic Placement: Place humidifiers strategically. A small humidifier next to your favorite reading chair can make a big difference.
Avoid Direct Airflow: Position yourself away from direct airflow from vents or fans. These can rapidly dry out your eyes.
Air Purifiers: Consider an air purifier with a HEPA filter to remove dust and allergens that can irritate your eyes. Taos can get dusty, especially during windy seasons.
Sunglasses are Your Shield: Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors, even on cloudy days, to protect your eyes from wind and sun. The New Mexico sun is intense.
Car Vents: Adjust car vents to avoid blowing air directly into your face.

Step 3: Over-the-Counter Relief: Navigating the Aisle

The pharmacy aisle can be overwhelming. Here’s how to choose wisely.

Artificial Tears: The Foundation: Use preservative-free artificial tears frequently throughout the day, even when your eyes don’t feel dry. Preservatives can irritate sensitive eyes with frequent use. Look for brands specifically formulated for dry eye, such as those containing carboxymethylcellulose or hyaluronic acid.
Ointments for Nighttime: Use a lubricating ointment at night to prevent dryness while you sleep. These are thicker than artificial tears and provide longer-lasting relief.
Gel Drops: Gel drops offer a middle ground between artificial tears and ointments, providing longer-lasting lubrication than tears but without the blurry vision associated with ointments.
Avoid "Redness Relievers": Steer clear of eye drops that promise to “get the red out.” These contain vasoconstrictors that can worsen dry eye in the long run.
Warm Compresses: Apply warm compresses to your eyelids for 5-10 minutes, 1-2 times daily. This helps to melt and release oils from the meibomian glands, which are essential for tear film stability. Use a clean washcloth and warm (not hot) water.
Eyelid Hygiene: Clean your eyelids daily with a gentle eyelid cleanser or diluted baby shampoo. This removes debris and bacteria that can contribute to inflammation and dry eye.

Step 4: Dietary Adjustments: Nourishing Your Eyes from Within

What you eat impacts your tear production.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids through diet or supplements. Good sources include fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. Consider a high-quality fish oil supplement specifically formulated for eye health.
Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration exacerbates dry eye. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily.
Antioxidants: Consume a diet rich in antioxidants, found in fruits and vegetables. These help protect your eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate you, worsening dry eye symptoms.
Consider a Supplement: Talk to your doctor about supplements like flaxseed oil or borage oil, which may help improve tear production.

Step 5: When to Seek Specialized Care in Taos

Sometimes, over-the-counter remedies aren’t enough.

Persistent Symptoms: If your dry eye symptoms persist despite consistent use of over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to see an eye doctor.
Vision Changes: Any changes in your vision, such as blurred vision or double vision, warrant immediate medical attention.
Pain or Redness: Severe pain, redness, or discharge from your eyes could indicate an infection or other serious condition.
Taos Specific Resources: Research local optometrists or ophthalmologists in Taos who specialize in dry eye treatment. Look for doctors who offer advanced diagnostic testing and treatment options, such as:
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) Treatment: MGD is a common cause of dry eye. Treatments include LipiFlow, TearCare, and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.
- Punctal Plugs: These small devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage and keep tears on the eye surface longer.
- Prescription Eye Drops: Your doctor may prescribe eye drops like Restasis or Xiidra, which help to increase tear production.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:

Inconsistency: The biggest mistake is not being consistent with your treatment plan. Dry eye management is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix.
Ignoring Underlying Conditions: Don’t ignore underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your dry eye. Work with your doctor to manage these conditions effectively.
Self-Diagnosing: Don’t self-diagnose or self-treat without consulting a healthcare professional. Dry eye can have many causes, and proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
Using Expired Eye Drops: Check the expiration dates on your eye drops and discard any that have expired.
Not Cleaning Humidifiers: Regularly clean your humidifier to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which can worsen your symptoms.

Living in Taos offers unparalleled beauty, but it demands a proactive approach to eye care. By understanding your personal risk factors, making environmental adjustments, utilizing over-the-counter remedies wisely, and seeking specialized care when needed, you can conquer dry eye and enjoy the stunning vistas of northern New Mexico with comfort and clarity. Don’t let dry eyes dim your view of the Land of Enchantment.