We’re all aware of the hazards of summer sun on our skin but don’t forget your eyes. Studies show that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts and growths on the eye, including cancer. Sunlight reflected off sand and water can cause photokeratitis.
Since summer is in full swing, which means many of us are spending more time outdoors enjoying the warm weather. Can your eyes get sunburned?
Yes, eyes can be ‘sunburned’ in a condition called photokeratitis. This commonly leads to urgent medical visits because of severe eye pain and an abrupt onset of symptoms. Luckily, it is typically self-limiting and resolves without permanent blindness, but any significant eye problem should always be evaluated by an eye doctor to properly diagnose and treat the issue.
Avoid Reading Glasses by Wearing Sunglasses!
Do you still need to wear sunglasses even if it’s cloudy outside?
You absolutely should still wear sunglasses when it’s cloudy outside. Clouds do not entirely block the sun’s rays, so you are still at risk for UV exposure and sunburns. Although sunlight is usually most intense at midday, your eyes are especially vulnerable to harmful UV light at dawn and dusk because of the direct angle of incoming light; it is important to wear sunglasses as much as possible, no matter the time of day or weather.
You’d also want to protect your eyes in dry and windy conditions. Dryness in the environment can cause your eyes to become dehydrated, leading to itching, redness, and a gritty feeling. Note that water, sand, and snow can reflect sunlight back toward your eyes as well, so sunglasses will protect your eyes even if you are wearing a hat. Also, the higher your altitude, the more exposed you are to UV light.
Family with daughter in sunglasses rest in park.
Do contact lenses provide protection against UV rays?
Several brands of contact lenses are built with UV protection. Keep in mind, however, that contact lenses only cover the center of the eye and not the surrounding areas, such as the conjunctiva or eyelids. It is still best to wear sunglasses. Depending on your environment, wearing contact lenses for too long outdoors may irritate your eyes more than usual, especially if you are in a dry, hot and/or windy area.
What is the standard UV protection to look for when buying sunglasses?
The sunlight that reaches Earth’s surface is made up of two types of harmful rays: UV-A and UV-B. You should choose sunglasses that provide 100% protection against both UVA and UVB radiation. You may also see the designation UV 400, which blocks light under 400 nanometers (including UVA and UVB). If you spend a lot of time on the water, polarized sunglasses may help reduce glare and reflections. Make sure to look for polarized lenses that provide maximum UV protection.
Many customers also ask us how to deal with foggy glasses during cooler fall mornings. We suggest using anti-fog wipes or sprays. If you wear a mask, adjust it occasionally to avoid fogging the glasses. You can also look into lenses with anti-fog coatings.
Can long-term exposure to the sun cause cataracts?
Yes, long-term sun exposure can cause cataracts. The most common eye problems related to sun exposure are cataracts and macular degeneration. While cataracts can be removed with surgery, macular degeneration is permanent and often quite debilitating. In addition, the skin around the eye is susceptible to skin cancer, so it is important to wear sun protection whenever possible. In contrast, even brief sungazing can cause permanent vision impairment, so never look directly at the sun.
Why is it important to wear goggles in the pool?
Swimming without goggles might seem to you like a minor oversight, but it isn’t so. Goggles not only allow you to see better underwater, but they also protect the eyes from chlorine and other chemicals in the water that may cause severe irritation. These chemicals may be necessary for maintaining a hygienic swimming environment, but they can be harsh on the eyes, leading to discomfort, redness, and a stinging sensation. Over time, repeated exposure can result in more persistent eye issues.
If you are a contact lens wearer, please discard any contact lenses after swimming activities because lenses may harbor bacteria that increase your risk for severe eye infections. This would keep out any contaminants that might be present in the water and can easily get trapped between the eyes and lenses. Moreover, swimming with contact lenses can cause them to dislodge or get lost in the water, ruining your swimming experience.
What are symptoms of eye allergies and what is the best way to treat them?
The fall season brings a wave of allergens like ragweed and mold spores. These can easily cause allergic conjunctivitis. Itching, swelling, redness, irritation, tearing, and blurry vision are all symptoms of eye allergies. If you know you have seasonal eye allergies and have been examined before, you can use over-the-counter, preservative-free, artificial tear eye drops found at most drug stores. For eye drops, we also suggest using moisturizing ones for added comfort in the cooler, dryer weather. Cool compresses are also helpful to reduce swelling and the urge to itch. Some over-the-counter allergy medications exist, but you should always be examined by a professional first to determine the best way to treat your eye allergies.
Should you be wearing protective eyewear when doing outdoor work like mowing the lawn?
Absolutely. In outdoor activities like mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, or even gardening, there’s always a risk of foreign particles like grass or dirt flying toward your eyes. Always consider protective eyewear when working in an environment that puts you at risk for accidents or projectiles. Protective eyewear acts as a shield, preventing these particles from causing harm or irritation. It isn’t just about immediate injuries; prolonged exposure to dust and debris can cause longer-term eye-related problems, and good quality eyewear saves you from that. Search for wrap-around eyewear that protects the eyes from the sides, ensuring particles cannot enter your eyes from any direction.
Is it necessary to protect your eyes when playing sports like baseball or basketball?
Yes, it’s of utmost importance. Our doctors recommend protective eyewear for high-risk sports because of the potential for sight-threatening injuries or even concussions. Contact sports such as competitive swimming, basketball and hockey, are especially prone to eye injuries because of the nature of body movements. Proper protective eyewear, made of durable materials and designed for sports-specific demands, can be the ultimate difference between a close call and a life-changing injury.
Should my children get their eyes checked before they go back to school in the fall?
It’s a good idea to check children’s eyes before starting school, regardless of state requirements. Having regular eye check-ups ensures that any vision problems are detected early, which can be crucial for their academic and overall development. Without a clear vision, children might struggle, leading to potential learning difficulties or behavioral issues.
Pediatric Vision Screening vx Pediatric Eye Exam
In many states, children are required to have an eye exam prior to their first year of school to ensure they have the vision they need to succeed in the classroom. We are lobbying for that guideline here in Minnesota. Pediatric eye exams not only assess visual acuity (sharpness of vision for distance and near vision), but also evaluate eye muscle function, depth perception and eye health to make sure your child is able to manage the increasing visual demands of each academic year.
Because of the increased digital device use caused by COVID – related distance learning, there is an epidemic of myopia or nearsightedness in children. If myopia persists and progresses, a child can be at risk for developing other serious eye diseases such as premature cataracts and glaucoma.
How can I protect my eyes from digital screens during prolonged use?
While digital screens do not emit harmful UV rays like the sun, prolonged exposure can undoubtedly lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. You’d want to invest in a screen protector to minimize glare. In addition, practice the 20-20-20 rule, i.e., every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on something 20 feet away, so it helps relax your eye muscles and reduce strain.
While using screens, ensure an arm’s length distance with the screen positioned slightly below the eye level. No windows on the front or back of the screen, and brightness and/or contrast are adjusted for comfortable viewing. We also suggest using a dehumidifier indoors as heating reduces the moisture in the air, leading to dry eyes and a host of other associated issues.
We hope these questions and answers provide a comprehensive look into eye care during the summer-fall transition. Adapting to these habits can go a long way in preserving overall eye health.
Take Proactive Measures for a Clear Vision
The summer-fall time offers countless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Amid the enjoyment, do not neglect your eye health. Whether basking in the sun, enjoying a swim, or gearing up for the New Year, safeguarding your vision should be a top priority.
You can also tweak your diet a bit. Fall time offers loads of eye-healthy foods. Pumpkins and carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is good for vision. Leafy greens, available year-round but incredibly fresh in the fall, contain lutein and zeaxanthin. These can help reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases. Not just for you, these eye-friendly foods can also make a big difference in your kids’ eye health.
Protect your sight and see the beauty in every season with confidence! Click here for a consultation and explore our range of protective eyewear.
