From mowing the yard, shooting off fireworks, playing sports and swimming pools, the summer poses many different obstacles to delicate eye tissue. Be safe, and check out our helpful guide for keeping your eyes healthy.
- Protect yourself from the sun
Sunglasses are not something to skimp as they are not all created equal. Frames that offer the most coverage are close to the face or wraparound glasses. Polycarbonate lenses are the most impact-resistant lens material available. For people who work outdoors or participate in activities or hobbies outside, polarized lenses may be more comfortable for workers because they block glare.
Our doctors say to wear a hat and sunglasses anytime there is prolonged sun exposure. Remember the kiddos – they require the same attention.
- Wear eye protection when doing outdoor projects
Many eye injuries occur during routine lawn care maintenance such as mowing and weed eating. Rocks and other debris can fly up or sideways injuring the person who is mowing or even children who are lower to the ground.
Eye care experts strongly recommend wearing professional eye goggles or frames. Such protection can prevent corneal lacerations, which require surgery to repair. Also, work that includes splitting wood, hammering nails, sawdust or anything else that can fly into the air warrants protective eye wear.
- Protecting eyes during sports
According to the U.S. Eye Injury Registry, 5 percent of all eye injuries result from baseballs.
The smaller the ball, the more likely to cause eye injury. However, the majority of all accidents can be prevented if players take proper precaution and wear the appropriate goggles that are sport-specific.
- Avoid chemicals
Cleaning with household chemicals can harm eyes if the area is not properly ventilated or if any cleaner gets in the eyes. If you notice stinging, soothe irritated eyes by using artificial tears, not anti-redness drops.
Also be mindful of outdoor threats such as poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. Medical attention is necessary if one of these nuisances makes contact with the eye. Be sure to flush the eyes with water and even shower if possible.
- Staying aware and practicing common sense
Summer is a great time to relax and have fun, but it is also full of potential dangers. BB guns, fireworks and even archery pose a major risk for eye injury. When participating in any of these activities, the proper eyewear should be worn to protect the eyes. Remember, about 90 percent of all eye-related injuries can be prevented.
For example, approximately 8,500 people get hurt by fireworks each year in the U.S. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2,000 of these are eye injuries with one-third of the eye injuries resulting in permanent eye damage.
Have fun and stay safe this summer!
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