Summertime is here and the FUN that comes with it!
Summertime offers so many opportunities for outdoor fun and adventure that sometimes we overlook the health of our eyes. Who wouldn’t want to take in the warmth of the sun while swimming, surfing, jet skiing, scuba diving or sailing? Nobody! But, it is essential to keep your eyes protected – so here are some important tips for protecting your eyes throughout the summer.
UV Sunglasses for Sun Protection
Everyone knows how important it is to protect their skin from harmful UV rays in summer, but the same rules apply to our eyes. ALWAYS wear regular or prescription sunglasses that offer UV protection. Get your best pair of UVA and UVB blocking sunglasses that clearly specify they are 100% UV protection. If you wear contacts, you’ll still need to wear sunglasses when you’re outdoors. Don’t let the clouds fool you. The suns rays can pass through the clouds and the haze and still do some damage to your eyes.
Water Sports
We all know it! Water makes for good times, but every imaginable body of water could be contaminated with bacteria or microorganisms. Contacts are a no go when swimming. The bacteria can get trapped beneath them or they could absorb water, causing them to stick to your cornea. Prescription goggles can reduce the risk of contamination and irritation from chlorine.
If you are a scuba enthusiast, diving masks with prescription lenses can be an expensive proposition. You could try Lasik, but if you’ve had Lasik surgery, make sure you’ve gotten the OK from your surgeon before you head to the water!
Summertime Sports
Playing your favorite sport under blue skies is fascinating, but there is plenty of sunshine. Basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, skateboarding, rock climbing, and even competitive frisbee players should take summer eye safety into account. Sports goggles are great for protecting the eyes from flying objects, elbows, fingers, grass, dirt, and much more from getting into the eye. Prescription sports goggles are also available and are a better choice than wearing glasses.
Keep Dry Eye At Bay
Spending a lot of time outside when it is hot, dry or windy can irritate the eyes and cause dry eye. A hot, dry environment affects the tear film, drying out the eye’s surface. To protect your eyes in these conditions, wear wrap-around glasses to keep the wind from your eye’s surface. Use artificial tears (preferably those that are preservative-free) to keep eyes moist and refreshed.
Additional Tips
- Make sure to wear a hat with a brim or visor to keep the sun out of your eyes.
- Think about eyewear and protection for the kids.
- Wear safety goggles when handling fireworks, barbequing, or mowing the lawn. No need for flying flames or debris to cause damage.
- And, of course, never look directly at the sun!
If you would like more tips to FOCUS on the FUN of this summer, please schedule an appointment to come in for a consultation and more words of wisdom from the crew at Dedham Ophthalmic Consultants and Surgeons.
