How to Protect Your Vision in the Summer

Summer is finally here – and that means you’re spending as much time outside as possible.  From lazy days by the pool to playing baseball games with friends, you can’t wait to soak up as much sunshine as possible.

But if you’re not protecting your eyesight, you may find that this summer is one you’ll spend in your ophthalmologist’s office.

Don’t put your eyesight at risk.  Here’s how to protect your vision in the summer, whether you’re spending it at the beach or just catching up on yard work:

• Don’t Skimp on Sun Protection. By now, you know you need to slather on sunscreen whenever you go outside (preferably one that’s 30+ SPF).  But if that’s all you’re doing to keep yourself safe, you might be putting your eyes at risk.  A surprising number of people show up in the emergency room every summer with burned corneas – which can happen when someone’s eyes are exposed to too much sunlight.

Whether you’re going to a NASCAR event or an outdoor concert, bring along a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses and a hat for shade.  Find sunglasses that carry the 100% UVA and UVB protection label, as this ensures your eyes will be safe from all types of UV rays.

• Wear Eye Protection. If your summer plans include gardening or working out in the yard, invest in a pair of safety goggles or wraparound safety glasses.  Many people get injured by debris that’s kicked up from lawn mowers and trimmers – even gardeners can get painful dirt particles in their eyes.

 The same rule of thumb goes for anyone working with machinery, chopping wood, or working in sawdust.  If something can get in your eye, you need to wear safety glasses.

• Wear Eye Protection Part 2. Are you playing on a baseball, softball, paintball, or tennis team this year? If that’s the case, invest in professional safety glasses for athletes.  Even golf balls can harm your vision if they end up hitting your face.  It may feel like a cumbersome object’s on your face, but keep in mind that’s what hockey players once said about their facemasks.

• Listen to Your Eyes. If you’re swimming in a pool and your eyes start to burn, listen to what your eyes are trying to tell you and get out! This usually means that the chemicals are imbalanced, which can cause significant discomfort and irritation to your eyes.

Make this a summer to remember for all the right reasons. At the Center for Ophthalmology and Laser Surgery – in Lighthouse Pt, FL serving Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach & Boca Raton – Dr. Loeffler and his staff members are dedicated to protecting your vision against summer’s biggest dangers.  Call (954) 786-5353 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Loeffler today.