When it comes to summer, there are tons of activities to partake in like swimming, hiking, going to the beach, and playing at the park. With these activities come risks, specifically for your eyes. To help you maintain healthy eyes this season, UChicago Medicine shared the top 10 most common questions regarding summertime eye health.

Can My or My Loved Ones’ Eyes Get Sunburned?

Yes. The eyes can experience “photokeratitis,” an issue similar to being sunburned. Like sunburns, photokeratitis can cause severe eye pain with sudden onset of symptoms. Also like sunburns, it typically goes away on its own with rest and soothing agents without risking permanent damage. However, it’s best to see an eye doctor to ensure proper identification and vision-safe solutions.

Do I or My Loved Ones Need to Wear Sunglasses If It’s Cloudy?

Yes. Clouds don’t block the UV rays of the sun, so your eyes can still experience discomfort and even damage. While hats can be a useful protection tool, UV-blocking sunglasses are critical for shielding your eyes, especially at dawn and dusk, on the water, in sand or snow, and at altitude.

Do Contacts Offer UV Protection?

Some do, but contact lenses only cover the center of the eye, leaving areas like your eyelids and sclera (white exterior of your eye) exposed. Eye doctors still recommend wearing UV-blocking sunglasses to ensure full protection.

It’s common to experience dryness and/or irritation from dry, hot, and/or windy environments during the summer. Relief can come from removing contacts as soon as you get home to allow your eyes to “recover,” but there are other steps you can take to ensure contact lens comfort.

Steps to Lasting Contact Lens Comfort:

1. Nourish:

Supporting the surface of your eyes with the necessary nutrients helps build a more stable foundation for the contact lens. Physician Recommended Nutriceuticals® (PRN) provides the #1 doctor recommended eye vitamin for dry, irritated eyes called De3. With the highest quality Omega-3s delivered in levels unmatched by other vitamins, De3 promotes healthy tear function, which translates to a healthy ocular surface and more comfortable contact lens wear.

2. Heat/Chill

At the end of a long day, taking out your contacts can feel amazing, but it may not be enough to soothe your irritated eyes. An eye compress that can provide hot or cold therapy may be just what your eyes need. The Mediviz warming eye compress provides moist heat therapy with a quick 20-30-second spin in the microwave, providing relief for dry, irritated eyes. More heat not what you’re looking for? Pop the Mediviz eye compress in the freezer for 10-15 minutes for a soothing cold compress. Either way, your eyes will be feeling relaxed and relieved in no time.

3. Cleanse

Your eyelids and lashes can collect irritants throughout the day (and even while you sleep), which can contribute to contact lens discomfort. We recommend using the #1 doctor recommended hypochlorous acid (HOCl) lid and lash cleansing spray to keep your lids and lashes free of bacteria and other contaminants. This spray is provided by Avenova® and has been clinically proven to reduce symptoms like dryness and irritation. Avenova’s 0.01% HOCl lid and lash cleansing spray is gentle yet effective, making it ideal to start and end your day with.

What UV Protection Should I or My Loved Ones Look for When Buying Sunglasses?

Look for sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. You can also look for a UV 400 designation, which indicates the lenses block all light under 400 nanometers. This includes UVA and UVB rays. Polarized lenses are recommended for those who spend time on the water or otherwise struggle with glare, but make sure they still provide the max UV protection.

Can Exposure to the Sun Over Time Lead to Cataracts?

Yes. Cataracts are one of the most common eye health concerns related to long-term sun exposure, with the other most common being age-related eye health issues. Surgery is an effective solution for cataracts, but age-related eye health issues are a life-long concern once they develop.

However, supporting your macular health through nutrition can help protect long-term vision and mitigate risk for age-related eye health issues. EyePromise® provides clinically proven eye vitamins demonstrated to support and enhance your macular health, reducing the likelihood of age-related eye health issues. There are few options to consider:

• EyePromise Zeaxanthin + Lutein: for those who want to be proactive with their eye health and have no signs or symptoms of potential age-related eye health issues; also a safe option for vegetarians and vegans.
• EyePromise Restore: designed to support aging eyes and mitigate risk factors for age-related eye health issues.
• EyePromise Macular Health and Macular Health Complete: nutritionally enhanced options for those similar to the participants studied in the AREDS 2 trial.

Should I or My Loved Ones Always Wear Goggles in the Pool?

Yes, if you’re planning to be under the water more than a couple of times. Goggles can protect the eyes from chlorine and other chemicals and irritants in the water. Additionally, it’s recommended to throw contacts away after swimming, as they can collect germs that can lead to infection.

What Are the Common Eye Allergy Symptoms and What’s the Best Path to Relief?

Eye allergies aren’t just a spring/fall issue. They can occur during the summer and even the winter depending on the allergen. Common symptoms include itching, redness, irritation, excessive watering, and blurred vision, and relief can be found with:

• Cleansing away the irritants on the lids and lashes with Avenova HOCl lid and lash cleansing spray.
• Cleansing the ocular surface with an over-the-counter eye drop.
• A cooling compress with the Mediviz mask. Don’t forget to use the cover for improved hygiene and to ensure those allergens can be washed away after use!
• Take PRN De3 to support the tear film and provide relief from the inside out.

Should I or My Loved Ones Wear Eye Protection When Doing Activities Like Mowing the Grass?

Yes. It’s recommended for activities where you’re at higher risk for accidents or sudden projectiles. Look for options that wrap around the eyes for full protection.

Should I or My Loved Ones Wear Eye Protection When Playing Sports?

Yes. It’s recommended for high-risk sports such as basketball or baseball. Better safe than sorry, but it’s not required.

Is It Necessary for My Children to Have Eye Exams Before Next Schoolyear?

Yes. Annual eye exams can help identify issues that may affect a child’s ability to learn. They can also catch other issues.

Hopefully these answers help you and your loved ones fully enjoy this summer!