Don’t Let Dry Eye Ruin Your Summer Fun

Summer in Lethbridge brings long, sunny days, outdoor adventures, and a welcome break from routine—but for those who suffer from dry eye, the season can be more frustrating than fun. Increased exposure to sun, wind, and air conditioning can significantly aggravate dry eye symptoms, making it harder to enjoy everything from backyard barbecues to lakeside getaways. Fortunately, the Dry Eye Clinic at Lethbridge Vision Care offers expert diagnosis and personalized treatment to help you get back to comfort and clarity.

Why Summer Makes Dry Eye Worse

Dry eye disease, or ocular surface disease, is a chronic condition that disrupts tear production and quality. During summer, environmental triggers become more aggressive. Hot, dry winds and higher UV exposure dehydrate the ocular surface, while increased time spent in air-conditioned spaces strips moisture from your eyes. Swimming in chlorinated pools or wearing contact lenses for extended periods under the sun only makes things worse.

While some may think dry eye is just a nuisance, it can quickly become debilitating. Left untreated, it increases your risk of eye infections and surface damage. For anyone who values their vision and wants to maintain an active, outdoor lifestyle, treating dry eye effectively is essential.

Recognizing the Signs of Dry Eye

Dry eye doesn’t always present the same way for everyone, but common symptoms can include:

A gritty or sandy sensation, as though something is stuck in your eye
Burning or stinging discomfort
Increased light sensitivity
Redness and stringy mucus around the eyes
Blurred or fluctuating vision
Eye fatigue or heaviness after visual tasks
Excessive tearing, a paradoxical response to dryness
Discomfort with contact lenses
Difficulty driving at night

These symptoms may appear sporadically or persist throughout the day. If you’ve noticed your eyes feeling worse in recent weeks, particularly when outdoors or in cooled environments, it may be time to seek professional care.

Still unsure if your symptoms stem from dry eye or another issue? Learn how to tell the difference and make a more informed decision about your eye health.

How the Dry Eye Clinic at Lethbridge Vision Care Can Help

At Lethbridge Vision Care, our dedicated team of optometrists specializes in diagnosing and treating the root causes of dry eye, not just the symptoms. We understand that every case is unique, which is why we begin with a thorough eye health assessment and tear analysis to pinpoint the exact nature of your condition.

Personalized Treatments for Real Results

Once we understand your needs, we’ll recommend a treatment plan combining clinical precision with comfort and convenience. Our therapies range from at-home care routines to advanced in-office procedures. OptiLight Therapy (IPL) by Lumenis is among our most popular and effective treatments.

This cutting-edge light therapy uses Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT™) to reduce inflammation and stimulate healthy tear production. Treatments are quick—just 20 minutes—and also offer skin-tightening benefits. OptiLight is especially beneficial for individuals dealing with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a leading cause of dry eye. It’s also effective for conditions like chalazion and styes.

Your Care, Covered

Our clinic also offers direct billing for most major insurance providers, making your path to clearer, more comfortable vision even easier. If you’re eligible for coverage under Alberta Health or other programs, our staff is happy to help you navigate the details. You can consult the Alberta Health Care website for general eye health benefits available through the province.

Tips for Managing Dry Eye This Summer

While professional treatment is key, there are steps you can take daily to protect your eyes during the summer months:

Wear wraparound sunglasses to shield your eyes from wind and UV rays
Stay hydrated and use a humidifier indoors when running air conditioning
Use preservative-free artificial tears regularly, especially when outdoors
Avoid smoking and reduce screen time when possible to reduce eye strain
Remove contact lenses before swimming and wear UV-blocking swim goggles

If these steps aren’t enough, or if symptoms persist or worsen, book a consultation with one of our dry eye specialists. Early intervention can prevent long-term damage and help you enjoy the season without discomfort.

Get Back to Enjoying the Season

Don’t let dry eye disease disrupt your summer adventures. At Lethbridge Vision Care, we’re committed to helping you reclaim visual comfort with the most advanced treatment options available. Whether you’re dealing with mild irritation or a chronic condition, our team will tailor a plan that fits your lifestyle and restores your quality of life.

Book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief.

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