Your eyesight is precious. Dr. Reza Vagefi, Chair of Ophthalmology and Director of the New England Eye Center at Tufts Medicine, shares tips to keep your eyes healthy this summer and all year round.
- Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses aren’t just for sunny summer days—sun damage can occur any time of year and accumulated damage from harmful UV rays can cause cataracts and even skin cancer of the eyelids. Protect your eyes with sunglasses labeled UV400 to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Treat your allergies: You’re not imagining it; environmental allergies are getting worse each year. Along with sneezing and runny noses—allergens like pollen can make eyes swollen, red and irritated. To start, try to avoid exposure to known allergens. Use an antihistamine eye drop to help alleviate and prevent symptoms. Don’t use decongestant eye drops (AKA “get the red out” drops) for more than 2-3 days, as long-term use can increase irritating symptoms.
- Use protective eyewear: Summer in New England means getting outside and making the most of warm weather, but don’t forget to protect your eyes. You can stay active and prevent eye injuries by wearing safety goggles or other protective eyewear when swimming, gardening or playing sports.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Protect your eyes and skin by staying in the shade during peak sunlight hours (10 am to 4 pm). Wear a hat with a large brim to shade your eyes and reduce glare!
- Use artificial tears: Sun, wind, saltwater and chlorine can all cause dryness and irritation. Artificial tears lubricating eye drops can provide relief. We recommend the preservative-free formulation because it’s gentler to your eyes. If you find yourself using them more than a few times a day, check with your eye doctor to make sure there is not something more going on.
- Be smart about fireworks: Fireworks, firecrackers and even sparklers can cause severe eye damage. They injure thousands of people a year, and summertime is the most dangerous. This summer, leave fireworks to the professionals! Keep a safe distance and wear protective glasses to prevent eye injuries from sparks or debris. If an injury does occur, call 911 immediately.
- Wash your hands: You can help prevent eye infections like conjunctivitis — also known as pink eye — all year long by washing your hands frequently and by avoiding touching or rubbing your eyes. Most conjunctivitis is caused by a viral infection for which there is no specific treatment. Cool compresses and artificial tears eye drops can make your eyes feel better. Eventually, your body will fight the infection off, and it will usually go away in 1 to 2 weeks. If your symptoms last longer, you should see your eye doctor.
- Get regular eye exams: Did you know that eye exams can reveal more about your health than just your sight? A thorough eye exam can detect signs of ailments, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Stay up-to-date with regular eye exams to keep your eyes healthy and address any concerns promptly.
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