Now that summer is here, our thoughts turn to soaking up those solar rays and enjoying being outdoors. While you’re out there having fun, it’s important to prioritize summer safety – not just from the Florida heat but also for your eyes. Protecting your eyes from the elements can help reduce the risk of vision loss and blindness.
Consider these guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Wear sunglasses. Not only are they a fashionable accessory, but they can protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. For the most protection from the sun, wear sunglasses that block out 99%to 100% of UV-A and UV-B radiation.
- If your summer fun includes activities that include the risk of eye injury – such as fireworks or sports – use safety glasses, goggles, shields, or eye guards designed for specific activities.
- Protect your eyes when swimming. Wear swim goggles or a swim mask and stay out of cloudy or discolored water.
- If you wear contacts, avoid the risk of infection by washing your hands thoroughly before touching or handling them, disinfecting properly, and replacing them as directed by your eye care professional.
In addition to summer safety, consider these vision health tips from the CDC:
- Have a comprehensive eye exam that includes dilation. Follow the advice of your eye care professional.
- Rest your eyes with the 20-20-20 rule when you’re focusing on one thing, such as a computer screen: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This will give your eyes a much-needed break.
- Eat a healthy diet that includes dark green leafy vegetables and foods with omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish.
- If you have diabetes, management is key with the support of your doctor. Be sure to have a comprehensive eye exam yearly.
- Avoid tobacco.Quitting or not starting can help you avoid conditions such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and optic nerve damage.
Taking care of your eyes in the summer, and allyear round, can help keep your eyes as healthy as possible. For more information from the CDC, go to http://www.cdc.gov/vision.
Sourced By: Healthwise
Reviewed By: Capital Health Plan PhysiciansGroup