Summer Eye Care Tips: Protecting Your Eyes from the Sun and Preventing Injuries
Summer is a time for outdoor fun, but it’s also a season when our eyes are exposed to additional risks. From the intense UV rays of the sun to potential injuries from summer activities, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your eyes. At Bend Surgery Center, we care about your eye health, and we’ve put together some essential tips to keep your eyes safe and healthy during the summer months.
1. Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection
The sun’s UV rays can be harmful to your eyes, potentially causing cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. When choosing sunglasses, ensure they block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles are especially effective as they protect your eyes from all angles.
2. Use a Wide-Brimmed Hat
In addition to wearing sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat can provide extra protection by blocking sunlight from above. This added layer of defense helps reduce the amount of UV exposure to your eyes and face.
3. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key to maintaining overall health, including eye health. Dehydration can lead to dry eyes and other discomforts. Make sure to drink plenty of water, especially when you’re out in the sun.
4. Wear Protective Eyewear
Summer activities like swimming, playing sports, or working in the yard can pose risks to your eyes. Invest in protective eyewear, such as goggles for swimming and safety glasses for sports and yard work, to prevent injuries.
5. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
If you get sand or dirt in your eyes, avoid rubbing them, as this can cause scratches and irritation. Instead, rinse your eyes with clean water or use saline drops to flush out any debris.
6. Be Mindful of Allergens
Summer can bring about allergies that cause itchy, watery eyes. To minimize exposure to allergens, keep windows closed on high pollen days and use air conditioning if possible. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops can also help alleviate symptoms.
7. Practice Good Hygiene
If you wear contact lenses, make sure to practice good hygiene to avoid infections. Always wash your hands before handling lenses, clean and store them as directed, and never swim with your contacts in.
8. Take Breaks from Screens
In summer, we might be tempted to spend more time on our devices. However, prolonged screen time can strain your eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away.
9. Eat a Healthy Diet
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in vitamins A and C, can support eye health. Foods like carrots, spinach, and oranges are excellent choices to keep your eyes in top condition.
10. Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining eye health and catching potential issues early. Schedule an appointment with your eye doctor to ensure your eyes are healthy and to get personalized advice on protecting your vision.
At Bend Surgery Center, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain healthy vision. By following these summer eye care tips, you can enjoy the season while keeping your eyes safe and healthy. Have a wonderful and eye-safe summer!
If you have any concerns about your eye health or need to schedule an eye exam, contact us today. Your vision is our priority!