Preventing Dry Eye in the Summer

Dry eye is a common and often chronic condition that occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including irritation, redness, blurred vision, and a burning or stinging sensation. There are several factors that can contribute to dry eye, including aging, certain medical conditions, medications, and environmental factors. One of the key environmental factors that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms is the heat of the summer months.
 

How Summer Heat Exacerbates Dry Eye Symptoms

During the summer, the combination of hot temperatures, low humidity, and increased exposure to air conditioning can all contribute to the development and worsening of dry eye symptoms. The hot, dry air can cause your tears to evaporate more quickly, leaving your eyes feeling dry and uncomfortable.
 

Additionally, the increased use of air conditioning can further dry out the air, leading to a decrease in tear production and an increase in evaporation. This can be especially problematic for those who spend a lot of time in air-conditioned environments, such as at work or in the car.
 

Prevention Strategies for Dry Eye in the Summer

There are several steps you can take to help prevent and manage dry eye symptoms during the summer months:

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help to keep your body and eyes well-hydrated, which can reduce the risk of dry eye.
• Use Artificial Tears: Keeping a supply of preservative-free artificial tears on hand and using them as needed can help to supplement your natural tear production and alleviate dry eye symptoms.
• Limit Time in Air-Conditioned Environments: Try to take breaks from air-conditioned spaces and spend time in more humid environments, such as outside or in a room with a humidifier.
• Wear Sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from the sun's glare and wind can help to reduce evaporation and keep your eyes more comfortable.
• Blink More: Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently, as this can help to spread your tears across the surface of your eyes and reduce evaporation.

If you're experiencing persistent or severe dry eye symptoms, it's important to seek professional help from an optometrist. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the underlying cause of your dry eye and develop a personalized treatment plan.
 

Effective Treatment Options for Dry Eye

For some individuals with dry eye, over-the-counter remedies may not be enough to provide lasting relief. In these cases, your eye care specialist may recommend more advanced treatment options, such as OptiLight IPL or iLUX treatment.
 

OptiLight IPL is a non-invasive, light-based therapy that can help to improve the quality and production of your tear film, reducing the symptoms of dry eye. The treatment is painless and can be performed in your eye care provider's office.
 

iLUX, on the other hand, is a thermal pulsation therapy that targets the meibomian glands in your eyelids, which are responsible for producing the oily component of your tears. By unblocking and stimulating these glands, iLUX can help to improve tear film quality and alleviate dry eye symptoms.
 

Both OptiLight IPL and iLUX treatments have been shown to be effective in managing dry eye, and your eye care specialist can help you determine which option is best suited to your individual needs.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Advanced Family Eye Care Today

Dry eye can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but with the right prevention strategies and treatment options, you can effectively manage your symptoms and maintain healthy, comfortable eyes during the summer months. By taking proactive steps to care for your eyes, you can enjoy the summer sun without the burden of dry eye.
 

If you're struggling with persistent dry eye symptoms, schedule an appointment with Advanced Family Eye Care. Our comprehensive eye exams and advanced treatment options, including OptiLight IPL and iLUX, can help you find relief and keep your eyes healthy all season long. Visit our office in Broken Arrow/Coweta or Wagoner, Oklahoma. Please call (918) 279-8830 or (918) 485-2123 to book an appointment today.