Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy everything Oklahoma has to offer—from afternoons at the lake to backyard barbecues and family vacations. While most people remember sunscreen, many forget that their eyes need protection too. Summer Eye Safety: Protecting Your Vision During Your Favorite Outdoor Activities is about taking a few simple precautions so you can enjoy the season while keeping your vision healthy.
At Thomas Eye Care, we often see an increase in eye irritation and injuries during the summer months. Fortunately, many of these issues are completely preventable with a little planning.
Protect Your Eyes Around Water
Whether you’re swimming in a backyard pool or spending the weekend at the lake, water can expose your eyes to bacteria, chemicals, and irritants.
Chlorine helps keep pools clean, but it can also wash away the natural tear film that keeps your eyes comfortable. This may leave your eyes feeling dry, red, or irritated after swimming. Lakes and rivers may contain bacteria or microorganisms that can increase the risk of eye infections.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends avoiding swimming while wearing contact lenses whenever possible, as contacts can trap bacteria against the eye and increase the risk of serious infections.
Swimming goggles are one of the easiest ways to protect your eyes from both chemicals and contaminants.
Don’t Forget Eye Protection During Yard Work
Summer often means mowing, trimming trees, weed eating, and working in the garden. Unfortunately, these activities also send rocks, sticks, mulch, and debris flying through the air.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that nearly half of eye injuries occur at home, many during routine yard work or home improvement projects.
Instead of regular sunglasses, wear ANSI-approved safety glasses or goggles whenever using power equipment. They provide impact protection that ordinary eyewear cannot.
Stay Hydrated to Keep Your Eyes Comfortable
Most people know dehydration affects their body—but it also affects their eyes. When you’re dehydrated, your body may produce fewer tears, leading to dry, irritated eyes.
During hot Oklahoma summers, drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. If your eyes still feel dry, preservative-free artificial tears can provide additional relief.
Wear Hats Along with Sunglasses
Quality sunglasses are important, but they aren’t your only defense against UV rays.
A wide-brimmed hat can reduce the amount of ultraviolet light reaching your eyes by up to 50%, providing an extra layer of protection while you’re gardening, golfing, fishing, or watching your kids play sports.
When choosing sunglasses, always look for lenses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
The National Eye Institute notes that cumulative UV exposure over your lifetime can contribute to cataracts and other eye diseases.
Know When It’s Time to See an Eye Doctor
Summer eye irritation is common, but some symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. Schedule an eye exam if you experience:
- Persistent redness
- Eye pain
- Sudden blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Discharge from the eye
- A foreign object that won’t flush out
Prompt treatment can often prevent more serious complications.
Enjoy Summer with Healthy Vision
Summer should be filled with memories—not eye injuries. By wearing appropriate eye protection, staying hydrated, and scheduling regular eye exams, you can enjoy everything the season has to offer while protecting one of your most valuable senses.
If you’re looking for prescription sunglasses, non-prescription sunglasses, or simply need your annual eye exam, the team at Thomas Eye Care is here to help. Stop by our optical shop to explore our latest eyewear or schedule an appointment to keep your vision healthy all summer long.
