Protect Your Eyes This Summer

Your vision is precious and worth protecting all seasons of the year. As the warmer months approach, our eyes can become more sensitive to irritants, including pollution, pollen, and exposure to UV rays and chemicals.

While there is no quick fix to improve the air quality around us, there are a few strategies you can follow to relieve your eyes when the sun is shining bright.


Smog And Pollution

The presence of smog and pollution can cause significant discomfort to people who are sensitive to these contaminants.

Emissions from power plants, vehicles, manufacturing facilities, and other sources often have a chemical reaction with the sun and the ozone layer. When this happens, pollution forms.

During the summer, intense sunlight and hot temperatures can intensify pollution levels, which can bother your eyes, even if you don't suffer from seasonal allergies or other sensitivities.

Avoid Discomfort And Injury

Air pollution can cause a range of symptoms ranging from minimal discomfort, dryness, or severe irritation. People who wear contact lenses to correct their vision may experience heightened sensitivity.

When this happens, opting to wear prescription glasses or choosing single wear contact lenses instead can help your eyes feel better.

Prescription glasses removes the need to place anything directly on your eyeball. Single wear contact lenses are ideal because after one use you toss them away, there is no extra care or cleaning required.

Avoid Eyeball Sunburn

When most people think of sunburn, they think of red skin that's painful to the touch. In extreme cases, blisters may even form.

The same way that the skin on your body is sensitive to harmful UV rays, so are your eyes. People who spend significant amounts of time in the sun for work or recreation are susceptible to getting sunburned eyeballs, which affect the cornea. Potential symptoms of sunburned eyes can include:

  • Bloodshot or red eyes
  • Mild to severe pain in the eye
  • Blurry vision
  • Teary or watery eyes
  • A feeling that something is in your eye

Prescription sunglasses or regular eyeglasses with UV-protective lenses, such as Transitions, helps to prevent overexposure to damaging sunshine. By consistently protecting your eyes, the less likely your chances of discomfort and potential of a long-term vision or eye damage.

Make This Summer Easier On Your Eyes

Before the temperatures and UV rays start hitting seasonal highs, scheduling an appointment with an eye doctor is a smart idea. During this exam, your eye doctor will do a thorough examination of your vision to identify any damages or prescription changes.

If you live in Abilene, and you want to get your eyes prepared for the sunny seasons, call the vision experts at Elite Eyecare of Abilene to schedule your appointment today.

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