4 Ways to Protect Your Retinas During the Summer
Summertime is all about enjoying the outdoors with family and friends. Whether you’re outside for hours or just a few minutes, it’s important to protect yourself from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, not just your skin, but also your retinas.
How UV Rays Impact the Retina
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to various eye diseases and conditions, such as cataracts, eye cancers, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). UV light is invisible to the naked eye, but it causes ionization, which breaks chemical bonds and damages living tissue in the skin and the eyes. Fortunately, there are ways to protect your eyes from these harmful rays. All it takes is some preparation before heading outside.
1. Wear the Proper Sunglasses
There are many stylish sunglasses on the market these days, but it’s important to check how protective they are before making a purchase. Your lenses should provide 100% UV protection or block both UV-A and UV-B rays. If you aren't sure about which glasses to pick, a retina specialist can make recommendations.
2. Choose a Wide-Brimmed Hat
A hat does more than just keep you cool on sunny summer days. It can also protect your retinas from overexposure to UV rays, especially if you choose a wide-brimmed hat that effectively shades your eyes. Even if you’re wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, you should avoid looking directly into the sun.
3. Use Goggles When Swimming
Lakes, rivers, and even swimming pools can contain bacteria and microorganisms that can harm your retinas, especially if you wear contact lenses in the water. These harmful organisms can get trapped under the lenses and cause significant damage. Wearing goggles can help protect your eyes and keep your retinas safe and clean.
4. Consult a Retina Specialist
The best way to protect your retinas is to consult a retina specialist. These doctors specialize in conditions that impact the retina and macula, and they can provide you with the advice and resources you need to keep your retinas protected during the summertime and all year round.
At Retina Group of Florida, our expert team specializes in top-rated retina care, so you can protect your vision no matter the season. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.