As temperatures rise and summer sunshine intensifies, July marks a critical time to focus on protecting your eyes. At Azure Eye Center, we’re highlighting UV Safety Awareness Month and Dry Eye Awareness Month—two important health observances that are closely linked.
Excessive sun exposure can cause both short- and long-term damage to your eyes, including conditions like pterygiumand dry eye syndrome. Here’s what you need to know—and how our Colleyville and Fort Worth offices can help you protect and treat your eyes all summer long.
What is a Pterygium?
A pterygium (commonly called “surfer’s eye”) is a non-cancerous growth of tissue that starts on the white of the eye and can extend onto the cornea. It’s often caused by prolonged exposure to UV rays, wind, and dust—making it more common in sunny climates like Texas.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Redness and irritation
- Gritty or dry feeling
- Blurred vision if the growth encroaches on the cornea
- Visible wedge-shaped tissue on the eye surface
While early pterygiums may be managed with lubricating drops or steroids, advanced cases may require surgical removal. At Azure Eye Center, our fellowship-trained ophthalmologist and cornea specialist, Dr. David Truong, performs precise, minimally invasive pterygium surgery using advanced techniques for optimal cosmetic and functional results.
Learn more about pterygium treatment at Azure Eye Center.
The UV-Dry Eye Connection
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays doesn’t just increase your risk of pterygium—it can also worsen dry eye disease. UV rays, heat, and wind accelerate tear evaporation and contribute to chronic inflammation of the ocular surface, leading to burning, stinging, and fluctuating vision.
Advanced Dry Eye Treatment in Fort Worth & Colleyville
If you’re experiencing symptoms like dryness, gritty sensation, eye fatigue, or light sensitivity, you may be suffering from dry eye syndrome. At Azure Eye Center, we use the latest diagnostic tools to identify the root cause and customize your treatment plan.
Common Treatments Include:
- Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops
- Punctal plugs to reduce tear drainage
- Thermal tear stimulation and heat therapy
- Meibomian gland expression and eyelid hygiene
- Omega-3 supplementation and artificial tears
Dr. Truong works closely with each patient to deliver relief through a tailored, science-based approach.
Learn more about our dry eye treatments and how we can help improve your quality of life.
Protect Your Eyes This Summer
To reduce your risk of pterygium and dry eye, follow these summer eye care tips:
- Wear 100% UVA/UVB-blocking sunglasses
- Use wide-brimmed hats for added sun protection
- Stay hydrated and avoid direct wind exposure
- Take screen breaks and blink often
- Use preservative-free lubricating drops when outdoors
Schedule an Eye Exam Today
Whether you need treatment for pterygium, relief from dry eye symptoms, or simply want to protect your vision during the summer months, Azure Eye Center is here to help. We proudly serve patients across Colleyville, Fort Worth, and the greater North Texas area.
Call 817-886-4600 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation.
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UV & Dry Eye Awareness | Pterygium & Dry Eye Treatment Colleyville TX
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July is UV and Dry Eye Awareness Month. Learn how sun exposure affects your eyes and explore treatment for pterygium and dry eye in Colleyville and Fort Worth.
