You probably want to protect your eyes and vision from the rigors of summer
sun, activities, and conditions. Take these small precautions to ensure you
don't increase your risk for debilitating vision issues or injure your eyes, by
protecting and preserving your eyesight.
Protect your eyes and sight this summer with these tips.
Wear Sun Protection
The most important thing to remember in summer is to protect your eyes from
UV rays of the sun, which can be harmful and damaging. Make sure that any
sunglasses you buy and wear offer UV protection that is adequate for the time
that you spend outdoors. Buy your sunglasses from your optical provider, where
you may find shades that block out both UV-A and UV-B rays.
Watch for Growths
Don't ignore any abnormalities or growths that you see on or around your
eyes. These spots are not uncommon among young adults that spend long hours
outside. This is a form of sun damage that could lead to cancer, so if you
surf, farm, ski, landscape, or enjoy outdoor activities, wear both sunglasses
and a brimmed-hat to help protect your eyes.
Don't Underestimate Cloudy Weather
Think you're in the clear because of cloudy weather? The damaging rays of
the sun can still permeate clouds to damage your eyes and compromise your
vision. Consider picking up a pair of very-lightly tinted sunglasses that still
offer full UV protection, but that won't be difficult to wear on dark or cloudy
days.
Never Look at the Sun
Did you know that you can cause permanent eye damage and vision loss by
looking directly into the sun? This is not only true on bright sunny days, but
anytime - even during an eclipse! The result is retinopathy which refers to
potentially permanent sun damage to the retinas of your eye.
Prevent Eye Trauma and Injury
Chores, sports, and activities that you typically enjoy during the summer
are also potentially hazardous to your eyesight. Failure to wear eye
protection, like goggles or specialty glasses, during these events could result
in an accident and injury. Eye trauma from an injury puts you at a higher risk
for other debilitating vision issues, including cataracts.
Reduce the Risk of Cataracts
Eye trauma is not the only thing that puts you at a higher risk of
cataracts, too much sun exposure is also a contributing factor. Cataracts are
common but require surgery to correct and are a major cause of blindness in
this country.
Identify Seasonal Allergies Early
Summer is often the time when seasonal eye allergies rear their ugly head.
Seasonal allergies can be triggered by pollen, plants, molds, spores, and weeds
that are common this time of year, and may cause your eyes to be red, swollen,
irritated, and runny. Talk to your optical provider about drops or medications
that may alleviate and prevent symptoms.
Ask About Dry Eye
Do you live in a dry, arid climate? A hot dry environment can cause you to
experience dry eye; dry eye is a medical issue whereas your eyes don't produce
enough natural tears to lubricate your eyes. This can be a painful condition
that interferes with normal vision. You can prevent dry eyes with soothing
medicated eye drops.
Any family member or loved one is at risk for these eyesight hazards, at any
age. Help children and seniors by offering and providing sunglasses and hats
this summer.
Learn more about summertime risks by talking with your provider at Fraser Optical. They can offer you
quality glasses, sunglasses, and eyewear that not only preserve and protect
your sight, but that help you see well and look great year-round.
