Chronic dry eye is a common eye condition, but it can cause discomfort, irritation, and vision problems for sufferers. The summer season brings its own set of challenges if you have dry eyes. Heat, humidity, sunshine (we hope!), outdoor activities, and air conditioning can all trigger the condition.
There are some straightforward ways to manage chronic dry eyes in the summer.
5 Tips to Manage Chronic Dry Eyes
- Stay hydrated
- Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops
- Reduce your screen time
- Avoid direct airflow
- Use eye protection
Here we go into these tips in more detail. Read on to have more comfortable, refreshed eyes this summer. Not sure if you have dry eyes? Use our symptom checker to know whether you’ve chronic dry eyes and get the correct dry eye treatment.
Tip 1: Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining tear production in summer. You should drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. This helps to ease your dry eye symptoms.
Tip 2: Use Lubricating Eye Drops
Use cooling and 100% preservative-free lubricating eye drops for quick relief from dry eye in summer. Thealoz® Duo is clinically proven to treat symptoms of dry eyes, is 100% preservative-free, and helps to increase the thickness of the tear film, which relieves symptoms of dry eye. Use them as needed, especially during prolonged outdoor activities or in air-conditioned environments.
Tip 3: Reduce Your Screen Time
Frequent and prolonged use of digital devices can contribute to dry eye symptoms. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and gives your eyes a chance to rest and rehydrate.
Tip 4: Avoid Direct Airflow
Avoid direct air from air conditioners, fans, or car vents, as these can accelerate tear evaporation. Use a humidifier to increase moisture levels in the air and maintain a more comfortable environment for your eyes.
Tip 5: Use Eye Protection During Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities like swimming, gardening, trekking, and traveling can expose your eyes to dust, pollen, and chemicals. So it’s a good idea to wear protective eyewear like goggles or sunglasses to provide an effective barrier against potential triggers.
When to talk to a professional?
Managing chronic dry eye in summer requires a proactive approach. Consult an eye care professional if you suffer from severe dry eye symptoms, such as:
- Eye redness
- Light sensitivity
- Watery eyes
- Blurred vision
- Eye irritation
- A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in the eyes
Dry Eye Treatment from Théa Pharma
Check out Thea Pharma’s eye care products for dry eye treatment. With over 150 years of expertise, we are uncompromising in our approach to developing the best eye care solutions. We are world leaders in 100% preservative-free products that won’t damage or irritate the eyes.
Make the most of the summer season and keep your eyes comfortable and healthy!