As the warmer months approach, we are quick to welcome the season by enjoying beach days, outdoor activities, and more time in the sun. However, unprotected exposure to the sun can impact the health of your eyes. Just as sunscreen is applied to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, precautions must also be taken with your eyes. Below, we cover five tips that may help keep your eyes safe this summer.

1.Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection

Sunglasses should be worn year-round, but they are essential during summer when more sunny days can mean increased exposure to UV rays. To ensure the health of your eyes, make sure your sunglasses offer 100% UV protection, which helps block out damaging UV rays. Remember to wear your sunglasses even on cloudy days, as the sun’s rays can penetrate clouds and haze as well.

2.Watch Out for Sunburned Eyes

Photokeratitis, also known as eye sunburn, is a painful condition that results from unprotected exposure to UV light rays, which can come from the sun or from manmade UV light sources. When bright sunlight reflects off of water, snow, sand, or other reflective surfaces and into your eyes, damage can occur and may even result in temporary vision loss. If you experience any of the following symptoms of eye sunburn, it may be time to visit Dr. Mittleman:

• Eye pain
• Irritation and foreign body sensation
• Blurry vision
• Redness
• Photophobia

3.Avoid Dry Eyes

Spending more time outdoors can mean you are more often in dry, windy settings. Dry winds, heat, and dust can irritate your eyes and lead to dryness. Artificial tears can help keep your eyes moisturized, comfortable, and refreshed this summer.

4.Use Protective Eyewear While Working Outside

Summer is a great time for completing projects around the home, doing yard work, and tending to gardens. Unfortunately, injuries to the eye can occur from these and other outdoor activities. Wearing eye protection while working outside this summer can protect your eyes from debris, dirt, bugs, and objects that can injure the eye.

5.Keep Up with Your Regular Eye Appointments

In addition to taking precautions this summer to protect your eyes, don’t forget to continue attending regular eye appointments. Regular exams provide more opportunities for any developing eye issues to be detected early, allowing for effective interventions to take place. If you suspect your eyes may have UV damage, or simply wish to schedule your next visit, book an appointment online, or text or call 561-500-2020 to get started today.