Is Poor Air Quality Making Your Dry Eyes Worse?

Dry eyes are a common condition that people experience daily. In fact, it affects millions. Most people think their dry eyes are due to aging or screen time. While these are common causes of dry eyes, other contributing factors exist. One of the most overlooked factors is the environment. The air around you inevitably makes contact with the eye. So, is air quality worsening your dry eyes? Below, you will find helpful information on managing your dry eyes.

Is Poor Air Quality Making Your Dry Eyes Worse?

The surface of the eye is exposed and highly vulnerable. Without the physical barrier between the eye and the environment, it can be easily impacted. There are several causes and treatments for dry eye. However, the environment is often overlooked. Consider the following ways the air quality can impact your eyes.

Pollution and Irritants

Fine particle matter in polluted air can easily settle on the surface of the eye. This triggers an inflammatory response. The inflammation then damages the delicate cells and oil glands found in the eyes. When the oil glands are impacted, tears evaporate too quickly. This is the most common form of dry eye. It is referred to as evaporative dry eye. People living in large cities or areas with high pollution levels have a higher risk of dry eyes. Poor air quality is a major contributing factor. While you cannot avoid the outdoors entirely, check the air quality index daily. Wear protective eyewear when you go outdoors for added protection.

Low Humidity

Dry air is one of the most direct environmental triggers for dry eye syndrome. When the humidity is low, tears evaporate from the eye surface more quickly. Common environments this can occur in include spaces with air conditioning, central heating, and airplane cabins. There are also geographic locations that are persistently dry. Constant exposure to low-humidity environments can make the eyes feel dry and gritty. To combat the issue, consult with a double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon. They can assess your symptoms and provide effective treatment options.

Wind Exposure

Locations with wind can accelerate tear evaporation. Even without dry eye syndrome, wind can cause unwanted issues. Discomfort, dryness, and excessive tears are common. For those with dry eye disease, windy conditions can immediately trigger symptoms. This can cause persistent discomfort, even indoors. It is important to check the air quality index before going outdoors. If you do go outdoors in windy conditions, wear protective eyewear to reduce the impact of your symptoms.

When to See a Specialist for Dry Eyes

Many people blow off dry eyes as a minor issue. However, it can have a real impact on your daily life. If your dry eye symptoms are interfering with your daily activities, it is time to contact a specialist. This is especially true if your symptoms get worse seasonally and do not get better with over-the-counter medication.

A double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon has the expertise necessary to treat the complex structures in the eye and surrounding area. A thorough evaluation is necessary to get you on the right treatment plan. The surgeon will examine your eyes and discuss your symptoms to identify the underlying cause. Once this has been established, a customized treatment plan is created to address your symptoms.

Treatment Options for Dry Eyes

Managing dry eyes requires a comprehensive treatment plan. This is especially necessary if you live in an area that exacerbates your dry eyes. Urban areas, dry conditions, and windy locations can be difficult. Treating dry eyes and addressing underlying triggers are essential.

Artificial Tears

Artificial tears are often the first line of defense for patients with dry eyes. They are a conservative treatment option proven to be effective. They are preservative-free artificial tears that supplement the natural tear film. They provide temporary relief and can be used proactively. This is especially beneficial if you plan to be in spaces with air conditioning or central heating. It is also helpful if you are going outside in windy or low-humidity conditions. Artificial tears help maintain tear film stability throughout the day.

Prescription Eye Drops

For those with moderate to severe dry eyes, prescription medications may be necessary. The eye drops target the inflammatory response. This is more than just lubricating the eye with artificial tears. When artificial tears alone do not work, your surgeon may prescribe eye drops. They address the inflammation that causes tear film dysfunction in the first place.

IPL Therapy

Intense pulsed light therapy is another effective treatment option. It is an in-office treatment that addresses evaporative dry eye disease caused by oil gland dysfunction. The treatment is smooth, fast, and effective. It reduces the inflammation in the blood vessels of the eye. This ultimately improves oil gland production. When the oil glands function properly, the tear film stabilizes. This reduces tear evaporation. A series of treatments is necessary to address the issue. This is an effective treatment option for patients who did not respond well to eye drops.

Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs are a great treatment option for patients who live in environments that accelerate tear evaporation. They offer a meaningful layer of protection. Punctal plugs are small devices inserted into the tear ducts. It effectively slows tear drainage, which keeps more of the natural and artificial tears on the surface of the eye. The plugs are biocompatible and painless. The insertion process is fast and can be easily removed, if necessary.

Environmental Modifications

Combining treatment with environmental modifications is essential. This may include using a home humidifier or wearing wraparound glasses. It is also important to check the air quality before you go outdoors. You can avoid many triggers by staying outside on high-pollution or windy days. Work with your surgeon on environmental modifications that are right for you.

Leading Double Board-Certified Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon

Dry eyes can impact your vision and daily life in several ways. To address the issue, contact Dr. Sarah Avila’s team today to schedule your consultation!