Summer well-being is essential as the temperatures rise. For the next few months one needs to gear up to negate the harmful effects of summer on the body. Surprisingly, we all are well educated to protect ourselves from sun and heat using the best available SPF sunscreen lotions, scarves and hats, air conditioners, coolers and cooling drinks, all the while neglecting one of the most sensitive organs of our body, that is your eyes. Eyes are equally susceptible to summer as skin, hair and rest of the body. Hence it is needed to consider summer eye care as an important aspect of health and beauty regimen.
Healthcare experts say that the sun’s scorching heat is extremely harmful to the eyes. The sun's UV radiation can raise the risk of cataracts and retinal damage. It can also induce eye allergies, which can range from minor itching and redness to severe watering and swelling of the eyelids, sties, and bacterial and viral conjunctivitis. This is primarily due to the heat and high amounts of pollutants and allergens in the air, which make our eyes vulnerable to allergic reactions such as redness, itching, and burning sensations. Taking care of your eyes is equally vital in the summer as it is throughout the year. In this blog, we have suggested ways to give your eyes an enjoyable summer and not a hurtful one.
Common Eye problems of summer
1. Dry eye disease
Warm and dry weather increases tear evaporation, resulting in an unstable tear film. Failure to blink frequently while gazing at a computer or mobile screen for an extended amount of time, chlorine exposure from swimming pool water, dust particles in the air, hot outdoor winds, and an interior air-conditioned (AC) atmosphere exacerbate the situation. Dry eye condition is characterized by stinging, burning, and irritation in the eyes, periodic blurring of vision, and mild redness of the eyes. Reflex watering can also occur in dry eye illness, hence treating the underlying cause is critical to avoiding such symptoms.
2. Eye allergies
The change in weather frequently aggravates all types of allergies in the spring and summer. Temperature changes, dust, pollen grains, and particulate and non-particulate pollution can all induce allergic reactions in our eyes. Allergic eye disorders cause redness, itching, irritation, and burning sensations in the eyes.
3. Exposure to sunlight and UV rays
Harsh sunshine increases UV exposure to the skin and eyes. Prolonged UV exposure can cause photokeratitis and photoconjunctivitis. Long-term UV radiation exposure has been linked to several eye illnesses such as pterygium, an increased risk of developing cataracts, and even eyelid cancer. EyeSpa Ayur is a complete Ayurveda eye drops that provides freshness and healing to the eyes. Two drops in each eye is enough for a cooling effect. The herbs used are pro in providing protection to eyes.
4. Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, often known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the white area of the eye (the conjunctiva) caused by a virus or bacteria. Conjunctivitis cases tend to increase throughout the summer season. It manifests as redness of the eyes with pricking sensations, sticky discharge, and watering. Conjunctivitis can be transmitted through contact or sharing things, such as a handkerchief, with an infected individual. EyeSpa Red is one of the EyeSpa eye drops variants that is apt for eye redness and mainly in case of conjunctivitis. It is always advisable to consult ophthalmologist in any critical situation.
5. Stye
Stye is a red, painful swelling on the outside edge of the eyelids. Styes are very common in children. It is typically caused by a bacterial infection of glands located on the eyelid. It can be easily treated with the help of warm compress and oral medications prescribed by an ophthalmologist.
Eye care tips exclusively for Summer 2024
1. Wear proper goggles and hats
They aid in the prevention of tear film evaporation and the reduction of symptoms associated with dry eyes and allergic eye illnesses. Hats also help to protect the skin from UV exposure. Wear big sunglasses that protect against UVA and UVB rays.
2. Hygiene is a must
Various allergies and diseases become more common throughout the summer months. To prevent these eye disorders, it is critical to wash hands and face frequently, especially during the summer months when youngsters engage in more outdoor activities.
3. Swimming care
Swimming pool water has a high level of chlorine. While we all like swimming in the pool during the summer, it is critical that we safeguard our eyes from the damaging effects of chlorine by wearing protective goggles.
4. Use of lubricant eye drops available in OTC
Keeping your eyes moisturized might help prevent dryness and irritation in the summer. People experiencing dry eye symptoms should see an eye specialist for an appropriate prescription following a comprehensive eye examination. EyeSpa regular eye drops is known to be one of the best artificial tears that is used specifically for dry eye condition.
5. Proper hydration and nourishment
Drinking plenty of water helps to prevent dehydration throughout the heat. Fruits and vegetables strong in antioxidants and carotenoids, such as berries, oranges, papaya, and carrots, aid to reduce oxidative damage caused by UV rays and maintain healthy eyes.
If you have been experiencing discomfort for an extended period of time, you should speak with an ophthalmologist.