Are Dry Eyes Worse in the Summer?

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including irritation, redness, and a burning sensation. While dry eyes can be a year-round problem, many individuals find that their symptoms worsen during the summer months.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Two common conditions that can contribute to dry eye are meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and blepharitis. MGD occurs when the meibomian glands, located along the edge of the eyelids, become blocked or dysfunctional, leading to a decrease in the quality and quantity of the oily layer of the tear film. Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids that can also disrupt the tear film. Dry eye can also be caused by a variety of factors, including:
 

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

•       Certain medical conditions: Conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes can contribute to dry eye.

•       Medications: Some prescription drugs, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, can interfere with tear production.

•       Environmental factors: Exposure to dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
 

•       Digital eye strain: Prolonged use of digital devices, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, can reduce blink rate and lead to tear film instability.

Understanding the underlying causes of your dry eye is crucial in developing an effective management plan.

How the Summer Season Exacerbates Dry Eye Symptoms

There are several reasons why dry eye symptoms tend to be worse during the summer:
 

•       Increased Evaporation: The warm, dry air and increased wind exposure in the summer can cause your tears to evaporate more quickly, leading to a lack of adequate lubrication for your eyes.
 

•       Increased Sun Exposure: Spending more time outdoors in the summer, especially in bright sunlight, can contribute to dry eye by causing increased tear evaporation and eye irritation.
 

•       Air Conditioning: While air conditioning can provide relief from the heat, it also dries out the air, further exacerbating dry eye symptoms.
 

•       Seasonal Allergies: Many people experience seasonal allergies in the summer, which can cause inflammation and further disrupt the tear film.

Understanding how these environmental factors can impact your dry eye condition is the first step in developing an effective management plan.

The Importance of a Proper Diagnosis for Personalized Treatment

Dry eye is a complex condition with various underlying causes. The severity and specific symptoms of dry eye can vary from person to person, which is why a proper diagnosis by an optometrist is crucial.

Your eye doctor can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including tests to assess the quality and quantity of your tear production, as well as the health of your meibomian glands and eyelids. This information will help them develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root causes of your dry eye, rather than just treating the symptoms.

Professional Treatments and Therapies for Dry Eye

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

•       Prescription Eye Drops: Your doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops or ointments to help reduce inflammation, increase tear production, or improve the quality of your tear film.
 

•       Thermal Pulsation Therapy: This procedure uses controlled heat and massage to unclog the meibomian glands and improve the quality of the tear film.
 

•       Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: IPL treatment can help reduce inflammation and improve the function of the meibomian glands.
 

•       Punctal Plugs: These small devices are inserted into the tear ducts to help retain your natural tears and prevent them from draining away too quickly.
 

•       Lifestyle Modifications: Your eye care provider may recommend changes to your daily habits, such as adjusting your computer usage, improving your blink rate, and using a humidifier.

By working closely with your doctor, you can develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the unique aspects of your dry eye condition, helping you find long-term relief, even during the challenging summer months.

Book Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Savaglio Family Vision Today

Dry eye syndrome can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but it doesn't have to ruin your enjoyment of the summer. By understanding the underlying causes of your dry eye, implementing effective management strategies, and seeking professional treatment when necessary, you can take control of your symptoms and maintain healthy, comfortable eyes, even in the face of the summer's heat and dryness.

Don't let dry eye ruin your summer. Schedule an appointment with Savaglio Family Vision to get a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Visit our office in Kenosha, Wisconsin, or call (262) 657-7850 to take the first step towards relieving your dry eye symptoms.