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How to Identify and Manage Common Summer Eye Problems

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As the days grow longer and the temperatures climb, many of us eagerly head outdoors to soak up the sun and engage in summer activities. Environmental factors can cause discomfort and health issues to our eyes while we engage in outdoor activities. At Cascadia Eye Care, we want to ensure that you enjoy a carefree summer, so we're focusing on recognizing and treating common summer eye problems such as swimmer's eye, dry eyes, and allergies.

1. Managing Swimmer's Eye: Prevention and Treatment Tips

Swimming is a quintessential summer activity, but it can expose your eyes to irritants like chlorine in pool water or bacteria in natural water bodies. This exposure can lead to a condition commonly called swimmer's eye, which manifests as redness, itchiness, and a gritty eye feeling.

Prevention and Treatment:

Wearing goggles is a must when swimming to prevent swimmer's eye. Choose a pair that fits snugly and offers UV protection while swimming outdoors.

If you experience symptoms of swimmer's eye, rinsing your eyes with clean, fresh water immediately after swimming can help. Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can also relieve discomfort.

However, if symptoms persist, it's important things. Visit your optometrist at Cascadia Eye Care to rule out infections or other complications.

2. Dry Eyes in Summer: Causes and Remedies

Summer heat, especially in Lake Oswego, can lead to increased tear evaporation, resulting in dry, uncomfortable, and sometimes painful eyes. Air conditioning and fans, while relieving the heat, can exacerbate dry eyes by increasing tear evaporation.

Prevention and Treatment:

Staying hydrated is vital to combating dry eyes in summer. Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Additionally, using a humidifier in your home can help maintain moisture in the air. For immediate relief, use preservative-free artificial tears to lubricate your eyes. If over-the-counter solutions are insufficient, please contact us at Cascadia Eye Care; a prescription medication or treatment might be necessary.

3. Tips for Preventing and Managing Seasonal Eye Allergies

Summer can be challenging for people with sensitive eyes due to the high pollen levels and other airborne allergens. Eye allergies typically cause redness, itching, and watering, leading to blurred vision.

Prevention and Treatment:

Limiting exposure to allergens is crucial. Keep windows closed during high pollen days and use air conditioning to filter out allergens in your car and home. Sunglasses can also help shield your eyes from allergens.

Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops can alleviate symptoms, but prescription options are available for persistent issues. Regular cleaning of your living environment to remove dust and pet dander can also significantly help reduce allergy symptoms.

At Cascadia Eye Care, we understand that maintaining eye health is essential for enjoying the beautiful summer season in Lake Oswego. If you're experiencing persistent eye discomfort, don't hesitate to make an appointment. Our expert team ensures that your vision remains clear and your eyes are healthy all summer.

Enjoy the summer safely and comfortably. Remember, your eye health is our top priority at Cascadia Eye Care.

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