Summer’s here, the sun is out, and it’s time to think about protecting your eyes. You need this protection for the same reasons that you need sunscreen when you spend a day outside: sun damage. Extended exposure to sunlight is connected to eye damage and various eye conditions, including cataracts, corneal sunburn, and even eye cancer.
Why does this happen? It’s because sunlight exposes you to ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are best known as the cause of skin conditions, such as sunburn, pigmentation, and skin cancer. However, your eyes also need protection against UV rays, and since they are especially strong during the summer, it is vital to take the necessary precautions to protect your eyes this year and throughout your life.
Wear Protective Gear
One of the easiest ways to protect your eyes from sunlight is to wear protective gear, like sunglasses or hats. Protective sunglasses are designed to limit damage and discomfort by blocking bright sunlight and glare. Disposable sunglasses can be purchased almost anywhere, while your eye doctor can help you obtain a polarized pair of sunglasses. Before wearing them, check your sunglasses to make sure that they protect against UVA and UVB rays.
On an especially sunny day, a hat with a wide brim can help cover areas of your eyesight that your sunglasses miss.
Spend Some Time in the Shade
When summer comes around and the weather warms, you may want to spend every moment of your day in the sunshine. However, it’s important to retreat to the shade once in a while, and your eye health is a big reason why. Shade provides vital relief from UV rays after long exposure and gives your eyes a chance to rest. Try to balance your sun time and shade time on days where the sun is especially bright.
Schedule an Eye Appointment
While sun damage to your eyes can be treatable, it can be avoided entirely through preventative care. One of the best ways you can keep track of potential sun damage and UV exposure to your eyes is visiting your eye doctor regularly. Your eye doctor will assess your eyesight at each visit help you create a plan to prevent long-term issues related to heat.
If you notice any changes in your eyesight that might indicate radiation damage, such as increased sensitivity to light, inflammation, or blind spots in your vision, reach out to your doctor at Vision Eye Group as soon as possible.
Do you have questions about how to best protect your eyes this summer? Call Vision Eye Group.
We provide the skilled optometrists you need to maintain eye health and quality vision throughout all times of the year: 478-744-1710