8 tips to protect eyes this summer

As the summer heat intensifies, our eyes become more vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and damage from harsh sunlight and pollution. With increased exposure to UV rays and hot, dry winds, taking proactive steps to protect your vision is essential. Here are some key tips to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable this summer.


1. Wear good quality sunglasses
Before you head out, make sure to wear a good-quality sunglasses. This will protect the eyes from pollution as well. If your sunglasses do not provide 100% UV protection, they will likely harm your eyes more than good. During summers, always choose a pair with wraparound frames. Wider lenses in these hues translate into improved eye care.

2. Put a visor 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.

3. Maintain Eye Hydration
The heat and dry winds that come with being outside can aggravate your eyes and lead to a condition known as dry eye. The warm weather dries up the surface of your eye and damages the tear film.
Dry eye is a common symptom during summer and using contact lenses or having seasonal allergies increases your risk of developing this condition. Use artificial tears to keep your eyes hydrated and protected in these situations.

4. Avoid Putting Sunscreen in Your Eyes
You run the risk of getting sunscreen in your eyes throughout the summer. Try applying sunscreen on your face extremely gently and carefully. Avoid your eyes and eyelids as much as possible. Because mineral-based sunscreens adhere to your skin and are less prone to getting into your eyes, dermatologists advise wearing them. If you do get sunscreen in your eyes, rinse them out right away with fresh water.

5. Avoid contact lenses during swimming
Water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and even swimming pools, can harbour bacteria and other microbes. Because the germs can enter under the contacts and cause an infection, using contact lenses while swimming is extremely dangerous. Splashing your eyes with fresh water after exiting the pool is still a good idea, even though goggles can lessen irritation and infection.

6. Take a nutritious diet
Eating nutritious fruits and vegetables is easy in the summer. You can find tomatoes, zucchini, green peppers, melon and peaches almost anywhere, and they are excellent providers of nutrients that are good for your eyes. Remember to eat your nuts and seeds since omega-3 fatty acids are also good for your eyes.
Additionally, throughout the summer, make sure to stay hydrated. Blurred vision and headaches can result from eye strain brought on by dehydration.

7. Attend Your Eye Appointments on Time
Don't put off getting an eye checkup in the summer; it's crucial to have one every year to maintain the health of your eyes. Frequent examinations can assist in detecting problems before they worsen.

8. Don't self medicate
Do not self-medicate if you experience itching, watering, or redness or simply cannot see well. Consult an eye doctor right away and refrain from taking any over-the-counter medications.
By following these precautions, you can protect your eyes this summer.

(Dr. Jay Goyal, Eye Surgeon, LASIK, Retina Specialist, and Director at Surya Eye Hospital, Mumbai)