How to Treat Dry Eyes During Summer

As the summer heat intensifies, many individuals find themselves grappling with the discomfort and irritation of dry eyes. This common condition can be exacerbated by the combination of high temperatures, increased sun exposure, and environmental factors. If you're struggling with dry eyes during the summer months, it's essential to understand the underlying causes and explore effective treatment options to find relief.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a chronic condition characterized by a lack of adequate tear production or an imbalance in the tear film that covers the surface of the eye. This can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms, including:

·       Irritation and redness

·       Burning or stinging sensation

·       Sensitivity to light

·       Blurred vision

·       Water eyes

·       Feeling of a foreign object in the eye

The primary causes of dry eye can include:

•       Environmental factors: Exposure to dry, hot, or windy conditions, as well as prolonged screen time and air conditioning can all contribute to dry eye.

•       Aging: As we get older, our tear production naturally decreases, making us more susceptible to dry eye.

•       Certain medical conditions: Autoimmune disorders, such as Sjögren's syndrome, can disrupt the tear production process.

•       Medications: Some prescription drugs, like antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

•       Eyelid Problems: Issues with the eyelids, such as blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction, can disrupt the production or quality of tears.

Diagnosis for Personalized Treatment Plan

If you're experiencing persistent or worsening dry eye symptoms, it's essential to consult an optometrist for proper diagnosis and treatment. A comprehensive eye examination will help identify the root cause of your condition. This exam may include a tear film evaluation, where your doctor assesses both the quality and quantity of your tears to determine any imbalances causing dryness. Additionally, an ocular surface examination will be conducted to check for signs of inflammation or damage to the eyes.

In some cases, your optometrist may recommend specialized diagnostic tests, such as the Schirmer test or a tear breakup time test, to gather more detailed information about your tear film and the severity of your dry eye condition.

With the results from these assessments, your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan to effectively address your dry eye needs, ensuring relief and comfort, particularly during the dry summer months.

Effective Treatments for Dry Eyes During Summer

Depending on the severity and underlying causes of your dry eye, your eye care professional may recommend one or more of the following effective treatments:

•       Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: IPL is a non-invasive treatment that uses controlled pulses of light to improve the function of the meibomian glands, which produce the oil component of the tear film. This can help reduce inflammation and improve tear quality.

•       LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System: This FDA-approved treatment uses a combination of heat and pressure to unblock the meibomian glands, allowing for improved tear film production and stability.

•       TempSure Envi Radiofrequency Treatment: This non-invasive procedure uses radiofrequency energy to gently heat the skin around the eyes, stimulating collagen production and improving tear film quality.

Revitalize Your Eyes with Complete Eye Care this Summer

Dry eyes can be a persistent and frustrating problem, especially during the hot summer months. By understanding the causes and symptoms of dry eye, and exploring the effective treatment options available, you can find relief and maintain healthy, comfortable eyes throughout the summer season.

If you're struggling with dry eyes this summer, schedule an appointment with Complete Eye Care. We can help you develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and get you back to enjoying the sunshine with clear, comfortable vision. Visit our office in Westminster, Colorado, or call (303) 404-2020 to book an appointment today