North Texas summer is in full swing and that means one thing. It’s hot! If a pool, waterpark, lake or ocean are in your summer plans, good for you! But there are some precautions you should take to protect your eyes from a few common eye conditions that are more frequently seen during the summer months.
At Cargo Eye Care of Las Colinas, we are here to guide you through recognizing and treating prevalent summer eye issues such as swimmer’s eye, dry eye and allergies, ensuring you can enjoy the season without discomfort.
Dry Eye Can Be Worse in Summer Months
Dry eye is a condition some people struggle with year round but the condition can be worse in the summer months. Summer heat and low humidity can cause dry eyes. Air conditioning and fans, while necessary this time of year, can make dry eye symptoms worse by increasing air movement around the eyes.
When your body can no longer produce enough tears or the right type of tears needed to keep your eyes moist, it can contribute to what is commonly called Dry Eye Syndrome. Every time you blink, your tear ducts should produce tears that will coat the surface of your eye and protect it from outside contaminants. But if the outer layer of the eye dries up, you may experience blurred vision, eye discomfort, headaches and possibly even infections.
Dry Eye Treatments at Cargo Eye Care
Cargo Eye Care offers a variety of treatments that provide immediate and long-term relief of dry eye symptoms. Some treatments target the blocked glands in your eyelids that produce oils to keep your tears healthy. When these glands become blocked or have reduced function, your tears may evaporate more quickly. Unblocking these glands will help restore their function and stabilize the tear film. This may improve the quality of tears and reduce symptoms like dryness, gritty or scratchy sensations, blurry vision, and watery eyes.
Summer Allergies
Allergies can run rampant during the summer due to higher pollen levels and other airborne irritants. Symptoms include itchy, red, and watery eyes. If you’re battling seasonal allergies this summer, here are some tips:
- Stay indoors when pollen counts are high.
- If you do go outdoors, remove your contacts, as they can attract and accumulate airborne allergens. Wear eyeglasses or sunglasses instead to block pollen from entering your eyes.
- Limit exposure to dust mites by washing bedding frequently and using allergen-impermeable pillowcases.
- Clean your floors with a damp mop so you don’t stir up allergens in the air during routine cleaning.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can make symptoms worse.
More serious reactions to outdoor allergens may require additional help. We can help you determine how to best keep your eyes clear and comfortable this allergy season!
Swimmers Eye (eye infections from swimming pools)
Swimmer’s eye can be a common issue for anyone who spends a lot of time in chlorinated pools. The chlorine, designed to keep the pool clean by killing bacteria, can strip away the film that naturally protects your eyes, leading to redness, irritation and a feeling of grittiness.
To keep your eyes (and your kids’ eyes) safe from the effects of pool water, consider this:
- Wear swim goggles (or do not open your eyes under the water)
- Rinse your eyes after swimming
- Use artificial tears (not for long term use)
Your Vision Is Our Passion
Cargo Eye Care of Las Colinas is the leading provider of optometry services and vision care products in the Irving community. We have served generations of families in the Metroplex since 2002.
At Cargo Eye Care of Las Colinas, you will find eye care professionals who genuinely care about not only your vision but your life! We serve children through adults in every season of life. We know that better vision means a better life and we are fully committed to doing our part in helping you live your best life possible. Schedule an appointment today and enjoy your summer!
