How to take care of Eyes in Summer?

It is important to take care of Eyes in Summer. The bright sunlight and increased outdoor activities during summer can put your vision at risk.

Some problems which you can have in Summer are-

The harmful UV rays can cause damage to eyes
dry eyes in summer and irritation

Let us read some effective ways to protect and nourish your eyes in summer.

How to take care of Eyes in Summer: Protection from UV rays

The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause damage to your eyes and increase the risk of eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Here are some tips to protect your eyes from UV rays

Wear Sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for labels that say “UV400” or “100% UV protection”. Wraparound sunglasses are also a good option as they provide additional protection from the sides.(Amazon sunglass deal under $25)
Use a Hat: Wearing a hat with a brim can help to shade your eyes from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat is even better as it provides more coverage.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Try to avoid being outside during these hours if possible. If you must be outside, seek shade under trees or use an umbrella.
Use Protective Eyewear: If you’re participating in outdoor activities such as sports, make sure to wear protective eyewear such as goggles or safety glasses. These can help to prevent eye injuries as well as shield your eyes from UV rays.

Eat food that promote Eye health.

some of the best foods and nutrients to promote eye health:

Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that can help protect against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish like salmon and tuna, as well as in flaxseeds and chia seeds, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation in the eyes and improve tear production.

Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant is found in citrus fruits, berries, and kiwi, and can help protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.
Vitamin E: Nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils are all good sources of vitamin E, which can help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and may also reduce the risk of cataracts.
Zinc: Oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds are all high in zinc, a mineral that plays a key role in maintaining healthy vision and may also help prevent macular degeneration.

How to take care of Eyes in Summer: Preventing Dry Eye

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can cause a range of symptoms, including redness, burning, itching, and blurred vision.

In the summer, dry eye can be exacerbated by factors such as increased exposure to sunlight, air conditioning, and swimming pools. The sun’s UV rays can damage the surface of your eyes, while air conditioning can dry out the air and cause your tears to evaporate more quickly. Swimming in chlorinated water can also irritate your eyes and cause them to become dry and red.

Allergies are more common in the summer months, and they can contribute to dry eye and irritation. Pollen, dust, and other allergens can cause inflammation in your eyes, leading to discomfort and dryness.

During the summer months, it’s important to take extra care of your eyes to prevent dryness and irritation. Here are some tips to help you keep your eyes healthy:

Wear Sunglasses: Wearing sunglasses is a great way to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Use Eye Drops: If you experience dry eye symptoms, using over-the-counter eye drops can help relieve discomfort. Choose eye drops that are preservative-free and specifically designed for dry eyes.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your eyes hydrated. This is especially important during hot summer days when you may be sweating more than usual.
Take Breaks from Screens: Spending long periods of time staring at a computer or phone screen can cause eye strain and dryness. Take frequent breaks to rest your eyes and blink often.
Avoid Windy Environments: Windy conditions can cause your eyes to dry out quickly. If you’re spending time outdoors on a windy day, wear protective eyewear or stay indoors if possible.