Summer is here and that means longer days, outdoor adventures, and plenty of sunshine. But it also introduces unique risks for your eyes. Enjoy the season safely, with clear and comfortable vision, by following these vision care tips to keep your eyes healthy during the summer months.
Shield Your Eyes from Harmful UV Rays
Any time you are outdoors, there is an increased risk of eye damage from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
- Always wear sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. UV rays can damage not only your skin but also your eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye)
- Don’t be fooled by cloudy days – UV rays penetrate clouds, fog, and haze, so keep your sunglasses handy year-round
- For extra protection, pair your sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat, which can block up to half of UVB rays that sunglasses alone might miss
Protect Your Eyes When Swimming
Swimming is one the most-loved summer activities for both kids and adults, but it brings some risks along with it.
- Chlorine in pools and salt in ocean water can irritate your eyes, strip away the protective tear film, and lead to redness, grittiness, or blurred vision.
- Always wear swim goggles to protect your eyes from chemicals and bacteria. After swimming, rinse your eyes with fresh water to remove any irritants.
- If you experience persistent irritation, use lubricating eye drops for comfort and visit us for an evaluation.
Guard Against Summer Allergens and Dryness
Allergies and dry environments are common in summer, and both can take a toll on your eyes.
- Summer allergens like pollen and grass can cause itchy, red, or watery eyes. If you’re prone to allergies, avoid rubbing your eyes and use doctor-approved allergy eye drops as needed.
- Air conditioning and fans can dry out your eyes. Stay hydrated, consider using a humidifier indoors, and wear wrap-around sunglasses to shield your eyes from wind and sun.
Practice Safe Outdoor and Sports Activities
Outdoor fun and sports are highlights of summer, but they can also increase your risk of eye injuries if you’re not prepared.
- Wear protective eyewear when playing sports, gardening, mowing the lawn, or doing home maintenance. This helps prevent serious eye injuries from flying debris or accidental impacts.
- Choose safety glasses or goggles that meet ANSI standards for impact resistance when engaging in high-risk activities.
Don’t Forget Rest and Hygiene
Good eye health is more than just protection. In fact, giving your eyes the care and rest they need can go a long way towards proper vision care in the summer months.
- Get adequate sleep – aim for at least 7 – 8 hours per night to help your eyes recover from sun and screen exposure.
- Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis (“pink eye”) and other infections, especially after outdoor activities or swimming.
Visit Family Vision Development Center for Comprehensive Vision Care
We are dedicated to protecting our patients’ visual health – not only in the summer but all year round! Our experienced team is able to provide the most comprehensive care, from vision exams, glasses and contacts to advanced vision therapy treatment and neuro-optometric vision rehabilitation. When it comes to summer vision care, we are available to answer your important questions and make sure your eyes stay healthy throughout these warm months. Contact us at 630-862-2020 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our practice.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.