Image Credit
Our eyes are super sensitive to infection, pollen, and strain, and summer is the worst time for them. If we don’t do everything we can to protect our eyes, at best they could end up itchy and irritated from hay fever, but at worst they could experience sun damage and infection. Taking care of the eyes is easy when you’re confident with what you’re doing.
Protect your eyes in the pool
When you’re taking a dip to cool off, it’s important to wear goggles to protect your eyes from bugs in the water. A common mistake that people make is that they wear their contact lenses underneath their goggles, but this can make you susceptible to infection as bugs get caught up around the lenses. If you think you’d struggle to swim safely without some sort of vision correction, prescription goggles are the way forward.
Choose sunglasses with UV protection
Just like our skin, our eyes are susceptible to sunburn too, only it takes a whole lot more work for our eyes to heal, if they do at all. That’s why sunglasses with UV protection are absolutely essential. Many people choose to wear them over their contact lenses – a good hydrating set such as Acuvue Oasys 12 Pack are great for avoiding dry eyes in the summer. Don’t forget about your kids either – their eyes are just as at risk of sun-related problems, so UV protection is essential for them too.
Keep them protected during hay fever
Many people find that wearing contact lenses can exacerbate hay fever symptoms such as dry eyes. If you’re a sufferer, be sure to speak to your optometrist about what their recommend. Antihistamines and eye drops can really help with the symptoms, but wearing sunglasses can also help to slow down the rate at which pollen and dust reach your eyes.
Keep computers away from sunlight
Interestingly, your eyes are still at risk from the sun’s rays, even when you’re indoors. If you use a computer, ensure it’s angled away from any windows, and if possible use a glare protector. The sunlight’s reflections can cause eye strain and even UV damage from a computer screen, so it’s important to be protected.
Keep them safe when you’re camping
Camping is many people’s favorite summer pastime, and it’s easy to see why. The issue comes if you’re a contact lense wearer, as hygiene can often take second place to fun and nature. Ensure there is always a suitable handwash station with antibacterial soap that you can use before putting your hands anywhere near your eyes. If you tend to use reusable lenses, don’t let the fact that you’re in the wild distract you from the need to clean them properly – a scratched retina or eye infection definitely isn’t the way anyone wants to spend their summer break.
Eyecare in summer follows a few basic rules – keep them clean, keep them protected from the sun, and if in doubt, speak to your optometrist for advice.