As the temperature rises and the sun shines longer and brighter, it’s important to prioritize your eye health and protect your eyes from potential summer hazards. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hiking the local trails, camping or embarking on outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying the beautiful weather, following these top 3 summer eye safety tips will help safeguard your vision and ensure a memorable summer, free from eye-related issues.
1. Wear Proper UV Protection.
The summer sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause long-term damage to your eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV rays increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. To shield your eyes from these harmful rays, follow these guidelines:
- Invest in high-quality sunglasses. Choose sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Look for labels indicating that they block 99-100% of UV rays. Consider wraparound sunglasses or those with large lenses to provide maximum coverage.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat. Along with sunglasses, wearing a wide-brimmed hat can provide additional shade and protect your eyes from direct sunlight.
- Use UV-blocking contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, consider opting for lenses with built-in UV protection. Although UV-blocking contact lenses adds an extra layer of protection, it’s important to remember that these lenses do not cover the entire eye, so wearing sunglasses is still essential.
Remember, UV rays can harm your eyes even on cloudy days, so 🌧 rain or shine ☀️ it’s crucial to wear UV protection consistently.
2. Hydrate to Prevent Dry Eyes.
The summer heat, coupled with increased outdoor activities, can lead to dry and irritated eyes. Dry eyes can cause discomfort, redness, itching, and blurred vision. To prevent or alleviate dry eye symptoms, follow these tips:
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and eyes hydrated. Proper hydration helps maintain tear production and prevents dryness.
- Use lubricating eye drops. If you experience dry eye symptoms, use preservative-free lubricating eye drops to provide relief and keep your eyes moisturized. If you’re not sure where to start, the optometrists at Eyes on Lex are experts and can help you find the most suitable drops for you.
- Take regular breaks. Whether you’re working on a summer project or enjoying outdoor activities, remember to take frequent breaks and give your eyes a rest. Focusing on screens or prolonged periods of concentration can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
3. Practice Eye Safety During Water Activities.
Summer and water-related activities go hand-in-hand. However, it’s crucial follow the recommendations below to protect your eyes from potential hazards associated with swimming, water sports, and poolside fun:
- Wear goggles. When swimming, wear goggles to shield your eyes from chlorine, bacteria, and other impurities present in the water. Goggles also protect against accidental eye injuries while playing water sports.
- Remove contact lenses before swimming. To reduce the risk of eye infections, remove your contact lenses before swimming. Water can harbor harmful microorganisms that may adhere to your lenses, increasing the chances of eye irritation or infection.
- Rinse eyes after swimming. After swimming, rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water to flush out any chlorine or impurities that may have entered your eyes.
Don’t let the summer sun take a toll on your eyes. Your vision is a precious gift, and at Eyes on Lex, we understand the significance of keeping your eyes safe during the summer months. Our experienced optometrists are here to provide you with exceptional care and guidance to ensure optimal eye health throughout the season.