Dry Eye Relief: Stay Comfortable All Summer Long

Summer in Loudoun County, VA, brings sunshine, outdoor activities, and often, an unwelcome guest: dry eyes. While the season is perfect for enjoying everything our community has to offer, the warmer temperatures, increased outdoor exposure, and even air conditioning can exacerbate dry eye symptoms, leaving your eyes feeling gritty, burning, and irritated.

At Optics&EYECARE, Dr. Seema Mohanan and our team are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal eye comfort year-round. Let's dive into why summer can be a challenging time for dry eyes and what you can do to find relief.

Understanding Dry Eye: Causes and Symptoms

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears, or the tears they do produce aren't of high enough quality to keep your eyes adequately lubricated. Your tear film is a delicate balance of three layers: oil, water, and mucus. A problem with any of these layers can lead to dry eyes.

Common causes of dry eye include:

• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age.

• Hormonal changes: Particularly common in women due to pregnancy, birth control, or menopause.

• Medical conditions: Autoimmune diseases, certain medications (like antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants), and even some eye conditions can contribute.

• Environmental factors: Wind, smoke, dry climates, and prolonged screen time can all speed up tear evaporation.

• Contact lens use: Can sometimes lead to reduced tear production or increased evaporation.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When the oil glands in your eyelids become clogged, affecting the oil layer of your tears.

• Air Conditioning: While a blessing in the heat, AC drastically reduces humidity, drying out the air and your eyes.

• Increased Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight and UV rays can cause tears to evaporate more quickly.

• Wind and Outdoor Activities: Being outdoors means more exposure to wind, dust, and allergens, all of which can irritate your eyes.

• Dehydration: We tend to sweat more in summer, making adequate hydration even more crucial for overall bodily functions, including tear production.

• Chlorine in Pools: Chemicals in swimming pools can strip your natural tear film, leading to irritation and dryness.

• Allergies: Summer often means higher pollen counts, triggering allergic reactions that can mimic or worsen dry eye symptoms.

Symptoms of dry eye can include:

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation

• Redness and inflammation

• Feeling like something is in your eye

• Sensitivity to light

• Watery eyes (paradoxically, as your eyes try to compensate for dryness)

• Blurred vision, especially at the end of the day or after prolonged visual tasks

Your Summer Dry Eye Relief Plan

Don't let dry eyes keep you from enjoying summer! Here are some strategies to help you stay comfortable:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. This is fundamental for your overall health and helps maintain tear production.

2. Use Artificial Tears Regularly: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide immediate relief. Look for preservative-free options if you use them frequently. Dr. Mohanan can recommend the best type for your specific needs.

3. Wear Protective Eyewear: Wrap-around sunglasses are your best friend in summer. They shield your eyes from UV rays, wind, dust, and airborne allergens. If you're swimming, wear well-fitting swim goggles to protect your eyes from chlorine.

4. Blink More and Take Breaks: When using digital devices or engaging in visually intensive tasks, remember to blink frequently. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

   • Manage Your Environment: Limit direct exposure to air conditioning vents or fans.

   • Consider using a humidifier in your home or office, especially if AC is running constantly.

   • Avoid smoky or dusty environments.

5. Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene: Applying a warm, damp compress to your eyelids can help stimulate oil glands and improve tear quality. Gentle eyelid cleaning can also remove debris and promote healthy tear production.

6. Dietary Support: Incorporate foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, flaxseeds, chia seeds) or discuss supplements with Dr. Mohanan. These healthy fats can support tear film quality.

When to Seek Professional Help

While these tips can offer significant relief, chronic or severe dry eye requires professional evaluation. If your symptoms persist, worsen, or significantly impact your daily life, it's time to see an eye care specialist.
Dr. Seema Mohanan at Optics&EYECARE offers comprehensive dry eye diagnosis and a range of advanced treatment options tailored to your specific condition. This could include:

• Prescription eye drops: Such as Restasis® or Xiidra® to reduce inflammation and increase natural tear production.

• Punctal Plugs: Tiny, dissolvable, or temporary plugs placed in your tear ducts to slow down tear drainage and keep moisture on your eye's surface. Dr. Mohanan has extensive experience with this effective treatment, as many patients have found significant relief through this simple procedure.

• In-office procedures: Such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) to address Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and improve the oil component of your tears.

• Specialty contact lenses: Designed to help retain moisture for those who wear contacts.

Don't let dry eyes dim your summer sparkle! Take proactive steps to protect your eyes and ensure comfort.
 

Book Your Appointment Today!

If you're struggling with dry eye symptoms this summer, or simply want to ensure your eyes are healthy and comfortable, schedule an appointment with Dr. Seema Mohanan at Optics&EYECARE in Ashburn, VA.

Our friendly team is ready to provide you with personalized care and help you find the best solutions for your dry eye relief.
Call us at 703-687-4719 or visit our website at www.opticsandeyecare.com to book your comprehensive eye exam today!