Summer is about vacations, sunny days and outdoor activities. And this leads to constant exposure to the intense rays of the sun for long periods and results in eye problems. Ideally, one should avoid the sun after 10 am and only go outdoors after 4 pm, because the interim is when the rays are harshest. But since you can’t hide indoors and need to brave the sun, here are some eye-care tips that could ensure a healthier Summer holiday.
Eye drops can help minimise problems
Eye drops can help but one must use them only after consulting a qualified ophthalmologist. “Eyes tend to dry out in summer for some people and so, lubricating drops are required. Ideally, the drops should be preservative free,” says ophthalmic surgeon Dr Keiki Mehta.
Why you need to do this
People, who are recovering from eye surgeries or disorders or have allergies, need eye drops. Dry eyes could be a symptom of something serious, too, so consulting a doctor is essential.
Wide-brimmed hats offer protection
Sunglasses, even the wrap-around ones, have gaps to let in harmful rays and they are not good enough when it comes to thorough protection from UV rays, unless accompanied with a wide-brimmed hat.
Why you need to do this
Sun exposure could lead to a from of skin cancer of the
lower eyelids, which could also spread to the entire area near your eyes.
Optimum sleep is essential
Staying awake for long can lead to decreased cognition on visual tasks, say experts. Consultant cataract and refractive surgeon Dr Nikhil Nasta says, “Ensure that you get adequate restful sleep for at least seven to eight hours in order to rejuvenate your eyes in a natural way.”
Why you need to do this
Sleeplessness could lead to problems and accidents in daily activities like driving, cooking etc. Also, tired eyes could feel dry and encourage rubbing and stimulation of the lacrimal gland. This could expose you to irritants and diseases.
Pool goggles are necessary
Make sure you wear goggles every time you hit the swimming pool, or other water bodies like rivers, seas etc. Says Dr Nasta, “The chlorine in swimming pools that is designed to protect you from germ exposure, can actually harm eyes and make them weepy and irritable.”
Dr Mehta adds, “The moment you get out of the pool, wash your eyes with fresh water.” Contact lens should be removed before you jump into the inviting water for a swim.
Why you need to do this
Studies have revealed that when your eyes are exposed to chlorine for long, it effects the protective layer on your cornea. When this layer is harmed, your eyes are exposed to diseases. Wearing contact lenses when splashing about in water could trap microorganisms and infect your eyes.
Guard eyes from ultraviolet rays
Polarised sunglasses that offer 100 per cent protection from ultraviolet rays, should be your constant companion during summer, states Dr Mehta. Experts suggest that one should never go without them even during overcast days when there is no direct sunlight because harmful rays penetrate the clouds.
Why you need to do this
Excessive exposure to ultra violet rays could lead to snow-blindness or photokeratitis, say experts. Constant exposure for hours could lead to cataracts or skin cancer of eyelids.
Keep hands clean
Opthalmologists state that rubbing eyes frequently could lead to eye infections. Also, only clean sterilised hands should be used to apply eye drops, eye ointments etc.
Why you need to do this
Washing hands and keeping them clean is essential to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
