Why Dry Eye Gets Worse in the Summer - And What You Can Do About It

Summer in Texas City is all about sunshine, warm breezes, and outdoor fun - but it’s also a season when many people notice their dry eye symptoms get significantly worse. If you’ve found yourself blinking away discomfort, burning, or blurry vision more than usual, you’re not alone. Understanding why this happens and what you can do about it can make a big difference in your comfort and eye health.

Why Does Dry Eye Get Worse in the Summer?

Hot, dry air and direct sunlight can quickly evaporate the tear film that protects your eyes. Prolonged exposure, especially during outdoor activities, leads to faster tear evaporation, leaving your eyes feeling gritty and irritated.
 

While it offers relief from the Texas heat, air conditioning removes moisture from the air, creating a dry environment both at home and in your car. This artificial dryness can make dry eye symptoms much worse.
 

Pollen and other airborne allergens are more prevalent in the summer months. Allergies can inflame the surface of the eye and disrupt tear production, compounding dry eye discomfort.

Vacations, downtime, and longer daylight hours often mean more time spent on phones, tablets, and laptops. Staring at screens can reduce blinking frequency, which is vital for spreading tears evenly across the eye surface.

What You Can Do About Summer Dry Eye

Simple Steps at Home:
 

• Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from sun and wind, both of which can worsen dryness.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps support natural tear production.

• Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to indoor air can reduce dryness caused by air conditioning.

• Take Breaks from Screens: Follow the 20-20-20 rule; every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating drops can provide temporary relief for mild cases.

When to See Your Optometrist

If you’re still experiencing discomfort after trying home remedies, or if your symptoms are severe, it’s important to see an eye doctor. Chronic dry eye can be caused by underlying issues that require advanced treatment. At Texas State Optical Texas City, we offer a variety of therapies designed to address the specific cause of your dry eye, including Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy to reduce inflammation, Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) to improve gland function, TearCare to unclog blocked glands, and LipiFlow to restore the natural flow of oils in your tears.
 

Depending on your individual needs, additional treatments may also be recommended. Our comprehensive approach starts with a thorough dry eye evaluation to identify the underlying cause, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan and provide lasting relief.

Find Dry Eye Relief All Season Long

Dry eye can be especially challenging during the summer months, but you don’t have to suffer through it. With the right prevention strategies and professional care, you can keep your eyes comfortable and healthy all season long.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation at Texas State Optical Texas City to find real relief all season long. Visit our office in Texas City, Texas, or call (409) 202-6984 to book an appointment today.