The summer season brings longer days, brighter sunlight, and plenty of outdoor activities. While we cherish these moments, it's crucial to remember the importance of protecting our eyes and maintaining good eye health. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays and other environmental factors can pose risks to our eyes. Here are seven essential tips to help you safeguard your eyes and enjoy a healthy summer.

1. Wear Sunglasses with UV-Protection

Invest in a high-quality pair of sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. UV rays can damage the delicate tissues of your eyes, leading to various vision problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Choose sunglasses with large frames or wraparound styles to shield your eyes from the sun's rays from all angles.

2. Use Wide-Brimmed Hats

Complement your sunglasses by wearing a wide-brimmed hat that provides additional shade to your face and eyes. This extra layer of protection helps block out the sunlight that may enter from the sides or top of your sunglasses, reducing the risk of eye sunburn and other UV-related issues.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can affect your eye health, causing dryness and irritation. During the summer months, make a conscious effort to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This helps maintain the moisture balance in your eyes, preventing dry eye syndrome and discomfort.

4. Take Regular Breaks from Screen Time

Summer often means vacations, relaxation, and more leisure time spent using digital devices. Prolonged screen time can strain your eyes and contribute to digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. To minimize the impact, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on something 20 feet away. This exercise helps relax your eye muscles and reduce eye fatigue.

5. Practice Eye Safety During Outdoor Activities

Participating in sports or recreational activities is a common summer pastime. To protect your eyes during these activities, wear appropriate protective eyewear, such as goggles or safety glasses. Whether you're swimming, playing beach volleyball, or cycling, proper protective gear shields your eyes from potential injuries, UV rays, dust, and debris.

6. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is beneficial for your overall health, including your eyes. Include foods like leafy greens, carrots, citrus fruits, fish, and nuts in your diet. These are excellent sources of nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, which support good eye health and reduce the risk of age-related eye diseases.

7. Visit an Eye Care Professional

Regular eye examinations are vital for maintaining eye health. Schedule an appointment with your eye care professional to assess your vision and overall eye health. They can detect any early signs of eye problems, provide necessary treatment, and offer personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.

During summer, it's crucial to prioritize the well-being of your eyes. By following these seven tips you can safeguard your eyes and enjoy the season without compromising your vision. Protecting your eyes today will ensure a brighter, clearer future!

Information received through CEC vision care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician, or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

CEC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of VSP Vision.

Sources: American Optometric Association (AOA), American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), The Vision Council (TVC), National Eye Institute (NEI), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).