Eye Care during Summer

Dr. Anju Harish, Consultant Ophthalmologist, SUT Hospital, Pattom

The scorching heat of summer brings with an increase in eye problems. As temperatures rise, dust and pollution increases hence allergies and infections also increase.

Some useful tips for eye care in summer;

1.Wear proper sunglasses:

Whenever you step out under the sun, always wear sunglasses that offer UV protection. Make sure that your glasses offer 100% protection against UV-A and UV-B rays or else they can cause greater harm than benefit your eyes.

2. Avoid mid day sun:

Try to stay inside especially during later morning and afternoon whenever possible. 11am – 3pm is the peak time for UV radiation as the strength of sun is at its peak. In case you go outside, wear proper polarized glasses to reduce the glare.

3. Stay hydrated:

It is very important to keep your skin and eyes hydrated. Always drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep your body hydrated as summer heat can snatch away your hydration.

4. Use proper eye gear during swimming:

Taking a plunge in cool water may be fun on hot day, but it should not come at the cost of your eyes. Chlorine used to keep pools germ free can be harmful to the eyes. It is always best to wear eye goggles while you swim. After swimming, care should be taken to rinse your eyes with fresh water.

5. Keep dry eye at bay:

A hot dry environment affects the tear film, drying out the eye’s surface. Give adequate breaks to the eye while using digital screens. If severe irritation or burning occurs, you can use artificial tears (preservative free) to keep your eyes moist and refreshed, after consulting your eye doctor.

6. Protect your eyes from eye allergies:

Summer season is notorious for flare up of eye allergies which can make your eyes itchy, puffy and red. A cold compress can give you some relief. Avoid rubbing your eyes; instead use artificial tears to wash allergens out of the eyes.

7. Prompt treatment of eye infections:

Red eye / Conjunctivitis is a common condition that is rarely serious and unlikely to cause long term eye or vision damage if promptly detected and treated early. Consult your eye doctor at the earliest and take proper medications to clear the infection. Proper personal hygiene is a must to prevent spread of disease among family members. Wash your hands frequently, never share towels or handkerchief when during infection.

8. Eat healthy:

There are many food rich in nutrients that can improve your eyesight, not just carrots. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been shown to promote eye health. Green leafy vegetables are rich in anti oxidants such as Lutein and Zeaxanthin which will protect your eyes from oxidative damage. Fish such as sardine, salmon, mackerel and tuna are rich sources of Omega- 3 fatty acids which will protect your eyes from age related macular degeneration and cataract.

9. Get adequate sleep:

Sleep deprivation can adversely affect the eyes. In order to replenish themselves and function well throughout the day, our eyes need at least 8hours of sleep at night. A good night’s sleep can refresh and re-energize your eyes and brain.

10. Follow a healthy lifestyle:

Proper exercise and healthy diet improves your physical and mental health, including your vision. Quit smoking as it can adversely affect eye health and is linked to eye diseases such as AMD, Cataract, Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

11.Regular eye exams:

Take a proactive approach to eye care and get your eyes checked regularly by a professional to preserve the precious gift of eyesight.