How to Keep Your Eyes Hydrated in the Summer

Summer is upon us. And while many look forward to barbecues and beach days, millions of Americans cannot fully enjoy their seasonal festivities due to dry eye syndrome. Multiple lifestyle and other factors influence this disorder, resulting in dryness, irritation, redness, and other uncomfortable or even potentially painful symptoms.

Additionally, leaving this condition untreated could negatively impact overall ocular health and cause problems like corneal abrasions. Not to mention the effect it has on daily life, making it hard to concentrate at school or work and causing frustration while trying to enjoy your favorite activities and hobbies.

Fortunately, Dr. Daxx Dunn is here for you and would love to help you find dry eye relief. So, contact us today to set up an appointment at Family Vision Care of Cool Springs in Franklin, TN.

What is dry eye syndrome?

Despite its name, dry eye syndrome encompasses more than dryness. Other symptoms include irritation, redness, inflammation, light sensitivity, visual disturbances, excessive tearing or watering, or the sensation that something is stuck in your eye.

And while a bit of ocular discomfort can occasionally occur for anyone, if it happens persistently or for extended durations, you may have dry eye syndrome. The only way to know for sure is to schedule a comprehensive consultation in Franklin, TN. Many previous patients have achieved life-improving relief, and we’d like nothing more than to count you among them.

Numerous factors influence dry eye syndrome. Some are uncontrollable, such as a genetic predisposition or certain medical conditions. Other medical issues can be improved or treated, leading to better outcomes. Furthermore, hormones, medications, and lifestyle considerations may also contribute to dry eyes.

This disorder generally manifests due to two causes. The first is insufficient tear production. The second is faulty tear production if the ratio of substances within the tears is out of proportion. In addition to water, tears also contain mucus and oil, which help the tears cover the surface of the eye and resist evaporation.

How to keep your eyes hydrated in the summer

We’re excited to offer you and your loved ones multiple time-tested, clinically proven treatment techniques to reduce and manage your dry eye symptoms. One typical plan of action includes using eye drops or artificial tears, and we can assist you in selecting the most effective options possible. In terms of in-office treatments, various procedures can allow the eyes to produce better tears or decrease evaporation.

You can also employ diverse strategies at home or while out and about. For example, you can avoid areas with excessive circulation, as air blowing on the eyes speeds up evaporation and increases dryness. You can also steer clear of irritants, including tobacco smoke, pollen, and pollutants – wearing sunglasses may prove useful.

When indoors, utilizing a humidifier can decrease dryness. And for those that spend a lot of time looking at screens, taking frequent breaks to rest the eyes is recommended. Additionally, placing a warm compress on the eyes can provide fast-acting relief.

A healthy diet could also be beneficial, so be sure to consume omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients, especially those found in leafy greens, fruits, legumes, and other nutritious choices.

Contact us today to tackle dry eyes

Based on your unique needs, Dr. Daxx Dunn and our expert eye doctors will formulate a treatment plan with your optimal outcome in mind. Dry eye syndrome can be exasperating and hinder your quality of life. But you don’t have to go it alone. Get in touch with us at Family Vision Care of Cool Springs today to find out how we can help you achieve dry eye relief in Franklin, TN.