Summer is a great time for outdoor activities such as beach trips, camping, and sports. However, it is also a season that can be harsh on your eyes.

With the intense sunlight, high temperatures, and humidity, it is crucial to take extra care of your eyes during summer. In this article, we will discuss the top eye care tips for summer to keep your eyes healthy and safe.

1. Wear Sunglasses

The most important thing you can do for your eyes during summer is to wear sunglasses whenever you are outside. Not all sunglasses are created equal, make sure that the sunglasses you pick block out harmful UV rays.

Polarized lenses are also a great option since they reduce glare, and are ideal when boating or participating in any water sport.

2. Use Eye Protection in Sports

Summer is the season for sports like softball, tennis, and soccer, all of which can increase the risk of eye injuries.

Wearing protective glasses while playing these sports will dramatically reduce the risk of debris, a ball, or anything else getting anywhere near your eye causing an injury. When you are participating in any kind of sport, whether it’s baseball or cycling, it is important to use protective gear for your eyes.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is one of the most common problems in summer. It not only affects your body but also your eyes. Keeping your body hydratedcombat dry eye syndrome and maintains the necessary moisture in and around your eyes.

Remember to drink plenty of water, coconut water or infused water can add flavours to your usual water intake.

4. Maintain Cleanliness

Many people enjoy swimming in pools, lakes, and oceans during summer. However, these waters are often contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and other toxic substances that can harm your eyes.

Make sure to protect your eyes by wearing goggles or rinsing your eyes with sterile water after swimming in any kind of water source especially if you wear contact lenses. Also, Remember to wash your hands before handling contacts or touching your eyes.

5. Be Mindful Of Air Conditioning

Air conditioning provides relief from the summer heat, but it can also dry out your eyes. Keep in mind that cold air can sap the humidity even indoors, and when the humidity drops, your tear film becomes less stable.

When using air conditioning remember to adjust the temperature to a comfortable level and use a humidifier to increase the level of moisture in the air.

6. Proper Contact Lens Wearing

Summer can be harsh on your contact lenses. Swimming & water sports can result in loss of lenses, or worse infection. It’s advisable to dispose of the daily lenses after use to avoid accumulation of bacteria in the lenses.

Avoid going into water bodies with your contact lens intact, Take them out, rinse them properly and store them in contact lens solutions. Remember Do not sleep in your contact lenses, it causes redness and increases the risk of developing an infection.

7. Take Regular Eye Breaks

It is advisable to provide your eyes enough rest and protect them from the summer glare, taking frequent eye breaks.

When working on the computer or reading for prolonged periods, use the 20/20/20 Rule – look at something that is 20 feet away, for about 20 seconds, every 20 minutes. This helps to relax the eye muscles and reduces eye strain.

8. Protect Your Eyes From The Sun When Driving

While driving during summer, you are exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. Make sure to wear polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV radiation.

If you are on a long drive, it is better to take breaks every few hours to rest your eyes.

9. Get Regular Eye Checkups

Many eye conditions can be detected early on by regular eye checkups. During summer, it is essential to get regular checkups done to protect your eyes from any harsh effects.

Eye exams are particularly important if you have underlying medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure or have a pre-existing eye condition.

10. Eat a Healthy Diet

Diet plays a significant role in eye health. Eat foods rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein such as leafy green vegetables, citrus, berries, eggs, nuts and fatty fish.

A healthy diet will help ensure that your eyes remain healthy and maintain their clear vision.

Conclusion

Summer can do a number on your eyes. But with some awareness, mindfulness and care, you can protect your eyes and have a great summer.

Remember sunglasses are a must, be mindful of air conditioning, eat healthily, get regular eye checkups, and know when to protect your eyes. Follow these eye care tips, and you will have a safe summer with healthy eyes!.