How To Safely Enjoy Outdoor Activities Without Compromising Eye Health

Protect Your Eye Health This Summer

Wear Proper UV-Protective Eyewear:
One of the most available tools for safeguarding your eyes is UV-protective eyewear. Opt for sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Look for labels indicating UV400 protection or lenses that meet the ANSI Z80.3 standards. Additionally, consider wraparound styles or oversized sunglasses that provide maximum coverage and limit peripheral exposure to harmful UV rays.

Use Wide-Brimmed Hats for Extra Protection:
Complement your sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat to shield your eyes from direct sunlight. The brim will provide an additional barrier against UV rays, reducing their penetration from above. This combination of sunglasses and hats ensures comprehensive protection for your eyes, minimizing the risk of sunburned corneas, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

Be Mindful of Peak Sun Hours:
When planning outdoor activities, it's essential to be aware of the peak sun hours. Generally, between 10 am and 4 pm, the sun's rays are the strongest and most damaging to the eyes. Whenever possible, schedule your outings outside these hours or seek shaded areas. This simple adjustment can significantly reduce your eyes' exposure to intense sunlight and lower the risk of eye strain and sun-related eye conditions.

Stay Hydrated to Prevent Dry Eyes:
Outdoor activities, especially during summer, can lead to dehydration. Insufficient hydration can cause dry eyes and exacerbate existing eye conditions. Remember to drink an adequate amount of water before, during, and after your outdoor excursions to keep your body and eyes properly hydrated. Consider using lubricating eye drops approved by your eye care professional if you experience persistent dryness.

Protect Your Eyes in Water Activities:
Water activities are a popular choice during summer. Whether swimming, surfing, or kayaking, it's crucial to protect your eyes from potential hazards. Invest in swim goggles or water-sport-specific goggles that provide a snug fit and offer UV protection. These goggles not only shield your eyes from harmful rays but also safeguard against irritants, chemicals, and potential infections present in pool water or natural bodies of water.

Maintain Digital Eye Health Outdoors:
Our reliance on digital devices continues even during outdoor activities. However, extended screen time outdoors can contribute to digital eye strain. Adjust your device's brightness to match the outdoor lighting conditions and utilize anti-glare screen protectors. Additionally, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break from focusing on a nearby screen.

Take Precautions in Sports and Recreational Activities:
Engaging in sports and recreational activities demands an extra level of eye protection. Prioritize safety by wearing appropriate eyewear specifically designed for your chosen activity. Whether it's protective goggles for basketball, helmets with face shields for biking, or safety glasses for gardening, ensure you have the necessary gear to shield your eyes from potential impact, debris, or harmful UV rays.
 

Prioritize Your Eye Health This Summer With Sunridge Eye Clinic

By following these essential tips, you can safely enjoy outdoor activities without compromising your eye health. Prioritize wearing UV-protective eyewear and complement it with a wide-brimmed hat for maximum protection. Stay mindful of peak sun hours and seek shaded areas whenever possible. Stay hydrated to prevent dry eyes and use appropriate eye protection during water activities and sports. Remember to maintain digital eye health even when outdoors. By incorporating these precautions into your routine, you can ensure a summer filled with joy, adventure, and optimal eye health.

Eye exams are an important part of healthcare at any time of year. Eye exams can detect any underlying health conditions as well as any developing eye conditions that can impact vision and eye health. At Sunridge Eye Clinic in NE Calgary, our staff is committed to the health of all patients. From infants to seniors, our eye exams are designed to help you and your family stay informed about your health while learning how to care for and prevent various eye conditions. To schedule an eye exam, contact Sunridge Eye Clinic at 1-403-280-7518 or fill out the online contact form.
 

FAQ

Q: Why is it important to wear UV-protective eyewear during outdoor activities?
A: Wearing UV-protective eyewear is crucial during outdoor activities because it helps shield your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to various eye conditions, including sunburned corneas, cataracts, and macular degeneration. UV-protective sunglasses act as a barrier, blocking 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. By wearing sunglasses with proper UV protection, you significantly reduce the risk of these eye conditions and ensure the long-term health of your eyes.

Q: How can I protect my eyes during water activities?
A: Water activities, such as swimming, surfing, or kayaking, require special attention to protect your eyes. Here are a few tips:

1. Invest in swim goggles or water-sport-specific goggles: These goggles not only provide a snug fit and minimize water irritation but also offer UV protection, shielding your eyes from harmful rays.
2. Ensure proper hygiene: Rinse your goggles with clean water after each use to remove any chlorine, salt water, or bacteria that can cause irritation or infection.
3. Avoid opening your eyes underwater: Even with goggles, it's best to keep your eyes closed or wear swim goggles to prevent irritants or microorganisms from entering your eyes.
4. Use lubricating eye drops: If you experience dryness or irritation after water activities, consider using lubricating eye drops approved by your eye care professional to relieve symptoms.

Q: How should I handle summer eye emergencies?
A: If you encounter a summer eye emergency, it's important to take appropriate steps:

• For foreign objects in the eye: Avoid rubbing the eye and try flushing it gently with clean water. If the object doesn't come out or if there is persistent pain, seek immediate medical attention.
• In the case of eye sunburn: Move to a shaded area and avoid further sun exposure. Apply a cool compress and use lubricating eye drops. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your optometrist.
• When exposed to chemicals: Rinse the eye immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Contact emergency services or seek immediate medical attention for further evaluation and treatment.
• Eye injuries: If you experience an eye injury, do not touch or rub the affected eye. Protect it by placing a clean, rigid object (like a cup or a shield) over the eye, and seek immediate medical attention.

Remember, prompt medical attention is crucial in these situations to prevent further complications and safeguard your vision. If you're uncertain about the severity of the situation, it's always best to consult with an optometrist or visit the nearest emergency room.

If you are experiencing an eye emergency of any kind, contact us immediately at 403.280.7518
*** Alberta Health Care covers all emergency eye care visits to Sunridge Eye Clinic ***