The summer months can cause irritation and damage to your eyes. The sun’s rays and summer allergens, such as pollen, dust and smoke can all cause eye troubles. Below are some items to watch out for this summer and best practices to help protect your eyes this season.
Sun exposure can cause damage to eyes. Most people are aware of the harm that sun can cause on their skin but few realize the damaging effects on eyes. Wearing sunglasses with sufficient UV protection works to reduce UV-A and UV-B damage. Protecting your eyes can also help reduce your risk for sunburn or the cornea, cataract, age-related macular degeneration, and uveal cancer.
Dry Eyes cause excessive tearing, irritation, and redness accompanied by a dry feeling which can be made worse by summer weather. Over the counter or prescription eye drops are used to lubricate the eye for those suffering from this condition. Make an appointment and your ophthalmologist will assess your condition for a proper treatment plan.
Eye Allergies Those who suffer from reactions to pollen and air pollutants should try to avoid these allergens especially during peak conditions. Sunglasses will add an extra barrier for your eyes. If you are a contact wearer, consider changing to single-use contacts to reduce buildup. There are medications that can be prescribed to further help reduce symptoms. Make an appointment with your ophthalmologist.
Swimming Avoid wearing contacts if possible in the water. If you are an avid swimmer, you may want to invest in prescription goggles. If you must wear contacts, make sure you properly clean them immediately after swimming to prevent eye infections.
Sports Whether you are participating or watching sports, make sure your eye is on the ball. If you do get hit in the eye, see your ophthalmologist immediately or go directly to the emergency room.
Fireworks Every year, more than 9000 people are injured from fireworks in the United States. 30% of these injuries are to the eyes. A quarter of fireworks eye injuries result in permanent vision loss or blindness. Experience fireworks only from a safe distance.
Statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Styes are a red painful bump that forms in the upper or lower eyelid, caused when sweat or oil glands get blocked. Stye infections are not contagious and do not affect vision.
Conjunctivitis causes red, itchy eyes sometimes accompanied with a gritty, “sand in your eye” sensation. Dustier air during the summer makes it easier for the wind to blow irritants causing problems for eyes. Conjunctivitis can be contagious, so proper handwashing techniques are necessary not to spread to others. Make an appointment with your eye doctor for proper treatment.
To reduce your chances of developing a summer related eye problem, always remember to wash your hands, stay away from irritants, wear UV protected sunglasses, keep yourself hydrated, and rest your eyes. If your eyes do become infected or injured, make an appointment immediately. Only your eye doctor can diagnose and recommend proper treatment.