How are Dry Eyes Treated In the Summer?

The summer months can be particularly challenging for individuals with dry eyes. Factors such as increased exposure to sun, wind, and air conditioning can contribute to the worsening of dry eye symptoms. The hot, dry, and sometimes dusty summer environment can lead to faster evaporation of your tear film, leaving your eyes feeling uncomfortable and irritated.

What Causes Dry Eye?

One of the leading causes of dry eyes is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). These glands located along the edge of your eyelids produce the oily component of your tears, which helps prevent evaporation. When these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, it can lead to an imbalance in the tear film, resulting in dry eye symptoms.
 

Dry eye can also be caused by a variety of other factors, including age, certain medications, environmental conditions, and underlying medical conditions. As you get older, your tear production naturally decreases, making you more susceptible to dry eyes.

Recognizing Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye syndrome is characterized by a range of symptoms that can affect one or both eyes. These symptoms may include eye redness, excessive tearing, a stinging or burning sensation, a feeling of grit in the eyes, stringy mucus in or around the eyes, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, eye fatigue after reading, difficulty wearing contact lenses, and discomfort when waking up due to eyelids sticking together. 

In severe cases, some individuals may experience intense eye pain, which can lead to anxiety and difficulty with daily functioning. It's essential to seek medical attention if you've been experiencing prolonged signs and symptoms of dry eyes, such as red, irritated, tired, or painful eyes, as this could indicate the presence of dry eye syndrome

The Importance of Seeing an Optometrist for Customized Treatment

If you're experiencing persistent or worsening dry eye symptoms, it's crucial to schedule an appointment with an optometrist. Your eye doctor can perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the underlying cause of your dry eyes and develop a customized treatment plan to address your specific needs.
 

Depending on the severity of your dry eyes and the underlying causes, your optometrist may recommend one or more of the following treatment options:
 

• Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops: These over-the-counter products can provide temporary relief by replenishing the tear film and reducing discomfort.
• Prescription eye drops: In some cases, your optometrist may prescribe prescription eye drops that can help reduce inflammation, increase tear production, or address the root cause of your dry eyes.
• Lid hygiene and warm compresses: Maintaining good lid hygiene and using warm compresses can help unclog the meibomian glands and improve the quality of your tear film.
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplements: Oral supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids may help improve the quality of your tear film and reduce inflammation.
• Lifestyle modifications: Simple changes, such as limiting time in air-conditioned environments, using a humidifier, and wearing sunglasses, can also help alleviate dry eye symptoms during the summer.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Texas State Optical Today

At Texas State Optical, our optometrists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of dry eyes. We use the latest technologies and evidence-based approaches to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our commitment to patient-centered care and our focus on delivering exceptional results make us the preferred choice for individuals seeking relief from dry eye symptoms.

Don't let dry eyes ruin your summer, schedule an appointment with the dry eye experts at Texas State Optical today to get the relief you deserve. We will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your dry eyes and helps you enjoy the summer sun without discomfort. Visit our office in Farmers Branch, Texas, or call (972) 991-2020 to book an appointment today.