Summer is a time of sunshine, vacations and outdoor fun — but it’s also when many people suffer uncomfortable changes in their eyes. Heat, dust, UV exposure and screen time during holidays lead to several eyes related problems.This article will help you understand the common summer eye problems and how you can deal with them easily and effectively.
Why Do Eye Problems Increase During Summer?
The reason for this prevalent increase in eye ailments during summer is due to exposure to strong sunlight and higher allergens present in the environment. Swimming in chlorinated pools or open water, constant wiping of the eyes from sweat and dry air from air conditioning can also cause irritation.
Itchy Eyes – The Most Annoying Summer Issue
One of the most prevalent summer complaints is itchy eyes. This can be due to pollen allergies, dryness, or dust suspended in the air. Rubbing your eyes often makes the irritation worse. It can also result in infections. Wearing sunglasses and washing your face periodically can alleviate the discomfort.
Using Tearing up with lubricating eye drops (with a doctor’s supervision) can take the edge off dryness and quell itchiness.void touching or rubbing your eyes with unclean hands, this could lead to more irritating or even spreading diseases like conjunctivitis.
Redness and Eye Infections
Redness in the eyes is another sign of trouble. It could be due to dryness, exposure to UV rays, or infections like conjunctivitis or styes. Chlorinated water in swimming pools can cause redness, burning, and even blurred vision in some cases.
To protect against this, use swim goggles and rinse your eyes with clean water post-swimming. Be careful not to share towels, makeup or, eye drops with others, as infections are easily spread in these ways. This is one of the common summer eye problems that often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe.
Dry Eyes from Air Conditioning
Although it provides wonderful relief from the heat, air conditioning can indeed have a drying effect on your eyes. If you’re spending most of your time in air-conditioned places — at your office, in your car or inside your home — you might notice a burning or gritty feeling in your eyes. That is because of lower moisture levels in the air that can affect your tear film.
Use a humidifier, blink frequently while using digital screens and, of course, drink enough water to maintain normal hydration of your eyes. If the dryness continues, see an eye specialist.
UV Ray Exposure and Long-Term Damage
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays in summer can damage the delicate tissue of your eyes. Long-term exposure can cause photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye), cataracts, and in some cases, macular degeneration.
Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Not every pair of sunglasses offers this, so check the label.” Wide-brimmed hats can provide shade and some extra protection to keep the sun’s rays at bay. Protecting your peepers from UV exposure is essential for avoiding many common summer eye problem.
Digital Eye Strain During Holidays
With summer holidays, more kids and adults spend time on phones, tablets and TVs. Extra screen time can cause digital eye strain — the headaches, blurred vision and watery eyes that come when you’ve been staring at your screen for too long.
The 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and based your eyes on something 20 feet away. This provides your eye muscles with some much-needed rest. Good lighting and screen filters can help lessen strain as well.
Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy This Summer
- Hydrate Well: Drink enough water to avoid dryness.
- Wear Sunglasses: Choose those with UV protection.
- Avoid Rubbing Eyes: Wash your face regularly.
- Limit Screen Time: Take breaks and blink often.
- Use Lubricating Drops: But only after consulting a doctor.
- Don’t Share Personal Items: This avoids the spread of infection.
These small habits can help you stay away from common summer eye problems and maintain healthy vision throughout the season.
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
while mild irritation or dryness might resolve with some rest and care, persistent symptoms like redness, pain, blurred vision or discharge should not necessarily be dismissed. They may indicate more serious issues such as an infection, allergy or underlying condition requiring medical attention.
Don’t wait for things to get worse. Many people try home remedies are often taken without diagnosing the condition which could lead to treatment and recovery taking longer. It is always better to get a check-up at the right time.
Summer is a beautiful time of year, provided you look after your eyes. Knowing about the common summer eye problems — from itchy and red eyes to infections and dryness — can help you stay safe and enjoy the sunshine. Practice good hygiene, protect your eyes, and drink plenty of water.
If you are facing any of these issues or just want to ensure your eyes are healthy, don’t hesitate to consult with an expert. The Eye Foundation offers world-class eye care with advanced treatment options and experienced ophthalmologists.
Book Appointment today to protect your vision this summer!
