Since summer has already arrived, now is the most important time to shield your eyes from damaging UV radiation. Therefore, you must also take care of your eyes. You apply sunscreen to save your skin from the sun’s damaging rays, but what about your eyes? The sun is directly in front of your eyes. You need to take good care of your eyes. Photokeratitis, which is comparable to having a sunburnt eye, cataracts, and cancer, can all be made more likely by exposure to sunlight. If you have severe eye issues, you should see the best eye doctor or hospital in your area.
Recognising How UV Rays Affect Eye Health
Invisible ultraviolet radiation, or UV rays, is produced by human-made tanning beds and solar emissions. Without any obvious symptoms or warning, the damaging UVB and UVA radiation damage the tissue in the eyes. Because your eyes are unable to communicate the symptoms of sunburn, sun protection is absolutely essential. Understanding the effects of continuous UV exposure will help us safeguard our eyes over the summer. This may result in:
- Photokeratitis is a painful corneal disorder that resembles sunburn.
- Accelerated cataract development
- Increased likelihood of macular degeneration
- growths, such as pterygium, on the surface of the eye
Every second of exposure without protection adds up. Eye protection must therefore be a part of your everyday summer routine.
Ways to Protect Eyes from UV in Summer
- Goggles or sunglasses
Always wear sunglasses with adequate UV protection when you’re outside in the sun. The likelihood is that your sunglasses may be doing more damage than good to your eyes if they are not providing 100% UV protection. It is a common misconception that adequate UV protection is more expensive, however, this is completely untrue. Additionally, less expensive sunglasses or goggles provide sufficient UV protection.
- Choose bigger shades
When it comes to UV protection, try to think broadly and choose a pair that has wraparound frames. Wider lenses in these hues translate into improved eye care.
- Put a shield or sun cap on
Although goggles or sunglasses provide the first line of defence, a sun hat or visor is always preferable for added protection. After all, you must protect your eyes from the sun’s rays.
- Put on athletic sunglasses when it’s overcast
Wearing sports sunglasses in overcast or cloudy conditions is not a terrible idea. This would shield the eyes from UV rays and guarantee proper eye care. A cloudy or overcast day should not fool you.
- Drink plenty of water
Maintaining proper hydration for your eyes and skin is crucial. Drink at least two litres of water each day to avoid dehydrated skin and eyes.
- Steer clear of the midday sun
Try to stay inside as much as you can, especially in the late morning and late afternoon. This is the period when UV radiation is at its highest and the sun’s brightness is at its strongest. If you must go outside, wear polarised lenses because they cut down on glare. These glasses are excellent for riding a bicycle or driving.
- Sunscreen around the eyes
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen sparingly around your eyes. Steer clear of eye-irritating lotions containing perfumes or potent ingredients. For sensitive skin around the eyes, choose mineral-based solutions such as zinc oxide.
Typical signs of UV exposure
Photokeratitis, a sunburn condition that develops after sun exposure, contact with snow, or usage of tanning beds, is caused by excessive UV light exposure to the eyes. The following are typical symptoms:
- Eye redness
- Gripping sensation or pain (like sand )
- Watery or teary eyes
- Vision blur
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- swollen eyelids
- Eye movements
- Halos around lights can occasionally coexist with visibility issues.
- A headache
Symptoms of UV radiation exposure typically appear soon after exposure and last for 24 to 48 hours. Consultation with an eye care specialist should be sought when symptoms worsen or when the first course of treatment is ineffective.
Healthy lifestyle for Eyes
Getting a decent night’s sleep is crucial. Include fatty fish, fruits, and vegetables in your diet because eating foods high in vitamins and other nutrients can help improve your vision and eye health. Drink lots of drinks and water to stay hydrated. Take care of your eyes and never undervalue them. If you begin to experience eye strain, pain, or any other possible signs of urgent eye disease, don’t take any chances. If at all feasible, have your beautiful organs examined.