According to available data, in the summer many people experience symptoms such as tearing, itching or eye irritation. Studies indicate that allergic conjunctivitis affects 15% to 40% of the population, and its severity often falls in the spring and summer months, when the pollen concentration in the air is the highest. In addition, as many as 80-90% of patients with allergic rhinitis also report eye problems, especially in spring. In addition, dry air and high temperatures can lead to dry eye syndrome, the symptoms of which include redness, burning and feeling of a foreign body in the eye.
Aleksandra Wlaź, MD, MD, Medical Head of the Optegra Warsaw Centrum, reveals proven ways to make our eyes perfect.
1. Sunglasses are more than a fashionable addition
Holiday sun is extremely treacherous. That is why sunglasses are not only a stylish gadget, but a necessity. Take care of your eyes like the skin – a good filter is the basis. To support eye health, choose glasses with a certified UV400 filter that provide full protection against UVA and UVB radiation. Remember that dark glass without a filter can do more harm than the lack of them – because they expand the pupils, letting more light harmful to the eyes.
2. Moisturize your eyes, especially in air -conditioned rooms
In hot weather, we often look for refreshment under the roof, in air -conditioned spaces, such as cars, hotels and restaurants. Dry air can, however, lead to irritation and feelings of “sand” under the eyelids caused by dryness. Moisturizing drops, so -called “Artificial tears”. Put them in your holiday beautician, especially if your eyes are sensitive or you wear contact lenses. Portable humidifiers can also be helpful.
3. Protect your eyes from external factors
Immersion in crystal clear water is pure pleasure. But chlorine from the pool or salt from the sea can irritate the eyes and cause redness. If you are planning diving or long baths, do not forget about protective goggles. Thanks to them, your eyes will be safe and you will be able to fully enjoy the water madness. Also remember not to rub your eyes. Regardless of whether you are tormented by pollen in the air with allergens, or flying sand, reaches your eyes reaching for moisturizing drops or washing them with water, which will allow you to remove pollen and contamination. Rubbing your eyes will not only worsen the problem, but also increase the risk of infection. Also remember not to touch your eyes with dirty hands.
4. Take care of rest – during the day and night
Relaxation on the beach can be a real pleasure, but your eyes can get tired quickly. Glasses with a UV400 filter will support them significantly, but it is worth taking a short break from sunlight from time to time and searched for a shadow. A few minutes of rest can significantly reduce eye fatigue, improve vision comfort and prevent headache. Also remember to cover the head. Night rest is important. Your eyes need regeneration just like the whole body. A healthy, uninterrupted sleep is a real SPA for the eyes – it reduces fatigue, redness and provides a radiant look of every morning.
5. Eat healthy. Your eyes also need it!
Summer is a great time to enjoy fresh vegetables and fruits, which, thanks to the vitamins and nutrients contained in it, have a positive effect on the whole body, complexion, but also eye health.
Spinach, kale, carrots and berries are real superfoods for sight. Lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamins C and E contained in these products support the condition of the eyes and help protect them from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Take care of your eyes and enjoy 100% in the summer
Summer should be carefree and joy sometimes, so it’s worth taking a moment to properly take care of your eyesight. However, if, despite the use of these simple rules, you feel discomfort, dryness or hypersensitivity to light, do not wait – consult an ophthalmologist. Your eyes deserve the best care so that you can fully enjoy every ray of the sun and a beautiful view!
