The hot weather and dry heat that comes with summer can really impact the health of your eyes. In fact, more than a third of the population experiences dry eyes during the summer which can cause discomfort. To avoid this issue, it’s important to protect your eyes properly to keep them as healthy as possible. To learn more about eye health, talk to your local optometrist in Kitchener and follow the tips below.

1. Use Eye Drops

It is important to keep your eyes wet to avoid excessive dryness. One way to keep your eyes moist is to apply eye drops. Contact your optometrist in Kitchener to recommend the appropriate eye drops for you.

2. Wear Sunglasses

Your optometrist in Kitchener may recommend that you wear wrap-around sunglasses to protect your eyes against dry air, wind, and sun. They may also recommend you invest in polarized sunglasses. These sunglasses are specially designed for those who have light sensitivity as they block more UV rays from the sun. 

3. Drink Water Regularly

Your body needs water to produce enough tears in order to keep your eyes moist. As a result, drink at least 96 ounces of water every day. Even when you are not thirsty, hydrate appropriately for the sake of your eyes’ health.

4. Wear Goggles When Swimming

It is crucial that you protect your eyes when you are simming, especially in chlorine pools. If chlorine gets into your eyes, it can make them dry, aggravating them and ultimately causing discomfort. Talk to your optometrist in Kitchener to prescribe the right goggles for you.

5. Wear Contact Lenses

Another way to manage dry eyes during the summer is to wear prescription contact lenses. There are several types of prescription contact lenses such as dailies, bi-weeklies and monthlies. Consult with your optometrist to decide what lenses would be the best fit for you.

6. Use a Warm Compress

If you suffer from dry eyes, the condition may worsen during the summer. However, you can manage this condition effectively by using a warm compress. Put a clean washcloth into warm water, close your eyes, and put the wet washcloth on your eyes for a few minutes. This helps to open up your tear ducts, allowing your eyes to produce tears naturally. 

7. Eat Right and Take Nutritional Supplements

The body needs an adequate supply of Omega-3 fatty acids to produce tears that will moisten your eyes. You can get the right amount of Omega-3 fatty acids in natural foods, such as palm oil, fish oil, soybean oil, flaxseed oil, fatty fish, walnuts, eggs, and chia seeds. You can also take Omega-3 fatty acids supplements at the recommendation of your optometrist. 

Takeaway

Follow the tips above to manage dry eyes during the summer. Also, take care of your eye health by making annual appointments with your optometrist in kitchener.