Summertime Tips for Chronic Dry Eye

As the summer heat intensifies, so does the risk of dry eye symptoms for those already dealing with chronic dry eye. The combination of increased outdoor activities, exposure to air conditioning, and extended screen time can exacerbate dry eye discomfort.

At Ophthalmology Associates of Bay Ridge in Brooklyn, New York, our highly experienced team of experts help with dry eye, using the most innovative approaches to treating the condition and restoring good eye health. 

Try these summertime tips to help manage chronic dry eye and keep your eyes refreshed and comfortable.

Stay hydrated 

As the summer sun shines brightly, it's essential to pay special attention to your body’s hydration needs. Dehydration can be particularly problematic when it comes to chronic dry eye, as it can exacerbate your discomfort and lead to increased dry eye symptoms. 

The following tips can help you stay hydrated and keep your eyes refreshed during the warm season: 

Drink plenty of water

Dehydration can contribute to dry eye symptoms, so make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water.

Use humidifiers 

Dry indoor air, especially from air conditioning, can worsen dry eye. Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air to create a more comfortable environment for your eyes.

Avoid overexposure to air conditioning 

While air conditioning can be a relief from the summer heat, try not to overexpose yourself to it. Take breaks from air-conditioned rooms to give your eyes a chance to adjust to natural humidity levels.

Protect your eyes outdoors 

When stepping out to enjoy the sunny outdoors, protecting your eyes becomes crucial. The combination of UV rays, dry winds, and environmental factors can take a toll, especially if you suffer from chronic dry eye. 

Here’s what you can do to help:

Wear sunglasses 

On sunny days, protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection. Look for wraparound styles that provide extra coverage and reduce exposure to dry winds.

Use artificial tears

Keep lubricating eye drops or artificial tears handy when spending time outdoors. Frequent use of eye drops can help alleviate dry eye symptoms and provide temporary relief.

Blink regularly 

Remind yourself to blink regularly when engaging in outdoor activities or using digital devices. Blinking helps spread moisture across the surface of the eye, reducing dryness.

Minimize digital eye strain 

In today's digital age, our screens have become a constant companion, even during summer vacations and outdoor activities. However, prolonged screen time can contribute to digital eye strain, which can worsen dry eye symptoms. 

Let's explore some practical tips to minimize digital eye strain and keep your eyes feeling refreshed and revitalized during the summer months:

Take breaks from screens 

Spending more time outdoors doesn't mean you're free from digital devices. Take regular breaks from screens to reduce eye strain and give your eyes a chance to rest and rehydrate.

Follow the 20-20-20 rule 

Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes, and look at something 20 feet away. This simple rule can help reduce eye strain and dryness associated with prolonged screen time.

Adjust screen brightness 

Adjust the brightness and contrast of your digital devices to a comfortable level that is not too bright or too dim, reducing eye strain and fatigue.

With these summertime tips for chronic dry eye, you can enjoy the season to the fullest without letting dry eye symptoms hold you back. Staying hydrated, protecting your eyes outdoors, and minimizing digital eye strain can make a significant difference in managing dry eye discomfort during the summer months. 

If you experience persistent dry eye symptoms despite following these tips, don’t hesitate to contact us at Ophthalmology Associates of Bay Ridge, or use our online scheduling tool to book your first appointment today.