If your eyes often feel gritty, irritated, or tired by the end of the day — you’re not alone.
In Copperas Cove and across Central Texas, dry eye symptoms are one of the most common reasons people visit the optometrist. With our region’s warm, windy climate and high pollen count, the air naturally pulls moisture away from the eyes. Combine that with long hours on screens and seasonal allergies, and it’s easy to see why so many residents — from soldiers stationed at Fort Cavazos to parents and retirees — struggle with chronic dryness.
At Cove Eyecare, Dr. Micheline Young often reminds patients that dry eye disease is more than a minor inconvenience. It can interfere with reading, driving, computer work, and even enjoying a sunny day outside. When left untreated, dry eye can cause inflammation, blurry vision, and discomfort that affects both productivity and quality of life.
Everyday Signs of Dry Eye
Dry eye looks different for everyone, but common warning signs include:
- A stinging, burning, or gritty sensation
- Watery eyes (your body’s way of over-compensating for dryness)
- Redness, irritation, or light sensitivity
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
If you notice these symptoms frequently, especially during windy days or after screen time, it’s time to get evaluated. The good news? Relief is possible — and easier than many people think.
Why Dry Eyes Are So Common in Central Texas
Living in Copperas Cove means lots of sunshine and fresh air — but also low humidity, dust, and wind, which can easily dry out the tear film that keeps eyes comfortable. Seasonal allergens and air conditioning can make matters worse, pulling even more moisture from the eyes. Add in screen time from work, school, or gaming, and your eyes simply don’t blink often enough to stay hydrated.
Many working professionals and veterans in the area spend hours in front of digital devices or outdoors in harsh conditions — both environments that increase evaporation of natural tears. Even some medications and underlying health conditions can contribute to chronic dry eye, making it important to get a thorough eye exam rather than rely on over-the-counter drops alone.
How to Find Relief and Protect Your Eyes
The best treatments for dry eyes depend on what’s causing your symptoms, but there are several steps you can take right away:
- Blink often when using screens and follow the “20-20-20 rule” (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
- Use a humidifier to add moisture indoors, especially during hot or windy weather.
- Wash your hands before touching your eyes or applying drops to avoid irritation.
- Eat more omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts, to improve tear quality.
- Stay hydrated — dehydration can make dry eye worse.
At Cove Eyecare, Dr. Young offers personalized solutions, from prescription eye drops to in-office treatments that restore your natural tear balance. For some patients, custom contact lenses or moisture shields can help protect and hydrate the eyes throughout the day.
See Clearly, Live Comfortably in Copperas Cove
Dry eyes shouldn’t keep you from enjoying life in Copperas Cove — whether that means taking a walk in the park, working long shifts, or spending time with family.
If your eyes feel irritated, blurry, or tired, schedule an appointment with Dr. Micheline Young at Cove Eyecare. Our team will identify the cause of your discomfort and help you find real, lasting relief — so you can see comfortably every day.
