Fun in the Sun: 5 Summertime Eye Health Tips
Long days and plenty of outdoor activities equal more time spent in the sun—particularly in Texas. While the dog days of summer may mean fall is not far away, it’s important to be mindful of your eyes’ unique needs long after Labor Day. Here are five easy tips to keep your eyes safe all summer long—and all year round.
Don’t Forget the Shades
Just like your skin, your eyes require special care when it comes to UV exposure, so don’t forgo the sunglasses—even on a cloudy day. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), “studies show that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts and growths on the eye, including cancer.” Long-term exposure to sunlight can also increase the risk for certain conditions within the eye, such as solar retinopathy or choroidal melanoma. In addition, eyes can become “sunburned” which causes a painful condition known as photokeratitis.
To protect your eyes from sun exposure, be sure to wear sunglasses that provide 100% protection against both UV-A and UV-B rays, even when you think you don’t need them. A broad-brimmed hat can also help keep harmful sunlight away from your face and eyes.
Take the Contacts Out
Planning to hit the pool? If you wear contacts, swimming can pose a serious threat to your eyes without proper protection.
Like sponges, contact lenses absorb water—as well as any chemicals or bacteria that may be present, introducing germs to the eyes that can lead to discomfort, irritation, and potentially vision-threatening infections. In fact, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA), “serious eye infections can lead to blindness and affect up to one out of every 500 contact lens users per year.”
To keep your eyes safe, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends keeping contacts away from all types of water, including swimming pools, lakes, and even your own shower. If you must wear contacts in the water, consider no-leak swimming goggles—or better yet, invest in a prescription pair instead.
Play It Safe
Of course, swimming isn’t the only summer activity that requires eye protection. Whether you are finally getting around to those home improvement projects, playing sports, or just mowing the lawn, keeping your eyes safe should always be top of mind.
ANSI-approved protective eyewear is appropriate for most household projects. To prevent eye injuries on the court or in the field, check out the AAO’s recommendations for your sport.
Keep Them Refreshed
If you suffer from chronic dry eye, you know how uncomfortable the summer months can be. In addition to the heat outside and air conditioning inside, sweating, squinting, and even wearing sunscreen can irritate your eyes and make dry eye worse.
Keep your eyes comfortable by using artificial tears, wearing wraparound sunglasses outside that can block wind and dry air, and avoiding direct contact with fans or air conditioners.
Get a Checkup
Lastly, summer is the perfect time to get your kids’ eyes checked (and yours, too) before they return to school. Myopia (also known as nearsightedness) as a result of digital eye strain is on the rise, especially in children. According to the AOA, one in four parents have a child with myopia, making it one of the most increasingly prevalent vision issues in the U.S. Fortunately, these issues can be caught and managed with early intervention, like an annual eye exam.
Have questions about your eye health or need to schedule an appointment? We’re here to help! Contact us anytime at 800-252-8259 or [email protected].
