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Dry Eye Syndrome Becomes More Common During Summer. A New Hyaluronic Acid-Based Treatment May Help

Burning, stinging, a gritty sensation, increased sensitivity to light, or fluctuating vision are among the most common symptoms of dry eye syndrome, one of the most widespread diseases affecting the ocular surface. It is estimated that millions of people worldwide suffer from some form of dry eye disease, and its prevalence continues to rise.

The growing amount of time spent in front of digital screens is only one of the contributing factors. Air-conditioned environments, air pollution, and the natural aging process also play an important role. In addition, symptoms often worsen during the summer months due to hot weather and holiday travel.

Dry eye syndrome develops when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the quality of the tear film—which protects the surface of the eye—is compromised. As a result, the eye is insufficiently lubricated, leading to symptoms that can significantly affect a person's quality of life.

The condition most commonly affects people over the age of 50, women undergoing hormonal changes, contact lens wearers, and individuals who spend long hours working at a computer. The risk is also higher in people taking certain medications, such as antihistamines or antidepressants, as well as in patients with autoimmune diseases.

"We are seeing patients with dry eye syndrome more and more frequently in our practice. It is no longer a condition affecting only older adults. Today, many working-age people experience dry eye symptoms as a result of spending most of their day in front of computer screens or in air-conditioned environments. During the summer, these symptoms often become even more pronounced," says MUDr. Radan Zugar, Head of the Prague Eye Centre.

Dry Eye Symptoms Often Worsen During the Summer

Summer is a time when dry eye symptoms can become significantly more severe. High temperatures, intense sunlight, wind, air-conditioned environments, and long-haul flights all contribute to faster evaporation of the tear film. Symptoms may also worsen after swimming in chlorinated pools or spending time by the sea. For many people, it is during their summer holiday that they first realize something is wrong with their eyes.

The cornerstone of dry eye treatment typically includes artificial tears, lubricating eye gels, and lifestyle modifications. However, these approaches do not provide sufficient relief for every patient. In recent years, new therapeutic options have emerged that focus not only on supplementing moisture but also on preserving the patient's natural tears on the ocular surface.

A New Approach to Dry Eye Treatment

One of the latest innovations is Lacrifill®, a treatment that uses a specially cross-linked hyaluronic acid gel. The gel is injected into the tear drainage ducts, where it temporarily reduces tear outflow. As a result, the patient's own tears remain on the surface of the eye for longer, helping to stabilize the tear film and relieve dry eye symptoms.

Unlike traditional punctal plugs, the gel adapts to the individual's tear drainage anatomy, creating a complete yet temporary occlusion of the tear ducts. The effect of a single treatment may last for up to six months.

"The main advantage of this treatment is that it makes use of the patient's own tears. Rather than continuously replacing tears with artificial lubricants, it prolongs the natural action of the patient's tears on the ocular surface. For carefully selected patients, this can provide significantly longer-lasting relief," explains MUDr. Radan Zugar, Head of the Prague Eye Centre.

The principle behind Lacrifill is to enhance the eye's natural protective mechanisms. Instead of repeatedly adding artificial tears, it helps the eye make more effective use of its own tear film. Clinical experience and early studies suggest that this approach may provide long-term relief, particularly for patients who have not achieved satisfactory results with conventional treatments.

"Of course, Lacrifill is not the right solution for every patient with dry eye disease. The underlying cause of the condition must always be identified first so that the most appropriate treatment can be selected. However, for patients who do not experience sufficient relief from standard therapies, it may represent a very promising alternative," adds MUDr. Zugar.

Dry eye syndrome should not be underestimated. If left untreated, it can lead to reduced quality of life, chronic eye irritation, and vision problems.

"Many people consider dry eye to be only a minor inconvenience and try to manage it on their own. However, if symptoms persist for weeks or keep recurring, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist. Today, we have a wide range of treatment options that can significantly relieve symptoms and help prevent chronic damage to the ocular surface," concludes MUDr. Radan Zugar, Head of the Prague Eye Centre.