With summers come the scorching sun and its relentless heat, both of which do no good to you. Summer brings with it, its own share of problems. Summer is in full swing and while many of you may be grabbing for the sunscreen to protect your skin, it’s also as equally important to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of UV (Ultra Violet) rays. Just as unprotected exposure of skin to the sun’s rays can cause cancers such as melanoma or lymphoma, your eyes are also at risk from many diseases. Below are some helpful summer eye care tips to help protect your eyes and make for an enjoyable summer outdoors. Even when the Sun is hidden by clouds UV rays are still able to penetrate through them. Ultraviolet rays scatter along the atmosphere more fervently than visible light, so even in the shade UV rays still remain a persistent problem. Sunglasses, Sunscreen and Hat Sunglasses actively block dangerous UV-A and UV-B rays. If they don’t offer 100% UV protection to protect your eyes from the dangers of UV exposure, they may be causing more harm than benefit. UV damage adds up overtime, so the sooner you begin protecting your eyes, the better, irrespective of your age. Keep your eyes beautiful by using proper sun protection. Too much sun exposure damages delicate skin around your eyes causing everything from wrinkles to skin cancer. Remember to wear the right sunglasses even when you’re in the shade. Although shade reduces your UV and HEV exposure to some degree, your eyes still will be exposed to UV rays reflected from buildings, roadways and other surfaces. A wide brimmed hat will provide an extra layer of defense before the sun reaches your eye. Be careful with sunscreen, if applied too close to the eyes, it can enter the eye and cause discomfort. Hydration is a necessity Moisture is needed for your eyes to be healthy. It’s important to keep your eyes hydrated. Drink a minimum of 2 liters of water each day to prevent dehydrated eyes and skin. Being well hydrated helps in keeping your eyes moist. If your eyes do not make enough tears, you may suffer from dry eyes. This condition is quite common but can worsen when out in the sun and wind. Prevention is the best cure Prevention is the greatest way to care for your eyes and ensure you maintain healthy vision. That meansgoing to an eye doctor once a year and getting your eyes dilated every other year. Also avoid getting out during summer unless it’s absolutely necessary. Stay inside when possible especially in the late morning and afternoon when the strength of the sun and ultraviolet radiation exposure are at a peak. Try and plan your outdoor activities accordingly giving you the advantage in protecting your eyes from excessive UV exposure and minimize the damage it can cause. *The views expressed here are solely those of the author in his private capacity and do not in any way represent the views of Centre for Sight.
