Protect Your Vision This Summer With These Tips

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Most people in Riverdale, NJ are overjoyed when summer finally arrives. The beautiful blue skies and green grass are a vision to behold. But along with all this bounty from Mother Nature comes a hidden danger; the UV rays emitted from the sun. While some sun exposure boosts production of Vitamin D, which is beneficial for overall health, too much exposure can endanger vision. Other vision dangers also lurk in the summer months. Here are some tips to ensure you and your family’s vision is protected.

Invest in Quality Sunglasses

UV rays increase your risk for macular degeneration and other eyesight problems. Spend a little bit of extra money on quality sunglasses that have UV protection built in. The cheaper sunglasses that you find in discount stores simply don’t offer the protection that your eyes need.

Get UV Protection in Your Prescription Eyewear

If you dislike having to deal with multiple pairs of glasses, talk to your eye doctor in Riverdale, NJ about UV filters or transitional prescription eyewear. This extra feature will protect your eyes and help you see better.

Wear Sports Goggles

Summertime means that you or your loved ones may be outside playing more sports or just having fun running around. Protective eyewear is an important aspect of sports that shouldn’t be ignored. Whether it’s a lively game of street hockey, a competitive LaCrosse match, a backyard football game, or just a relaxing day out on the golf course, consider wearing protective eyewear or sports goggles. These will prevent injuries from stray balls, game sticks or elbows and keep your vision protected.

Use a Blue Light Blocker

Many people enjoy reading on their favorite device while outside on the front porch, lying on a hot and sunny beach or in the back of the RV while someone else drives. Often, glare from the sun means you have to turn up the screen brightness in order to make out the words. Do your eyes a favor and either install a blue light filter on your device or wear blue light glasses. Blue light from screens is a known strain on the eyes, as well as being harmful in other ways.

No matter where this summer takes you, try to remain thoughtful about protecting your vision. For more helpful tips about protecting your precious eyesight, contact us to book your next eye exam in Riverdale, NJ.

How to Recover From UV Damage 

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Photokeratitis is a temporary but painful eye condition caused by overexposure to UV radiation. UV radiation is emitted by the sun, which is why sunglasses are recommended by youreye doctor in Riverdale, NJ. Your eyes can be overexposed to UV radiation from other sources, too, such as tanning beds and the use of UV lights in the home or garden area.

Symptoms of Photokeratitis

Symptoms of overexposure to UV radiation are impossible to miss. You may not realize that your eyes are being overexposed to UV radiation, but the symptoms will be very apparent shortly afterward. Symptoms include:

  • Painful eyes
  • Scratchy eyes; “sandy” sensation
  • Blurred vision
  • Headache
  • Swelling around the eyes
  • Seeing halos
  • Low vision or partial loss of vision
  • Teary, watery eyes

You may have multiple symptoms, depending upon the severity of the overexposure.

How to Recover From UV Radiation

Although photokeratitis is painful and scary, it is usually temporary. You can expect symptoms to abate from between six and 24 hours later. By 48 hours, all symptoms should have disappeared. To aid in recovery and help with the discomfort, do the following:

  • Take an over-the-counter medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen for any associated pain and/or swelling
  • Remove any contact lenses. Do not wear eyeglasses
  • Lie down and keep your eyes closed
  • Place a cool, moist cloth over the closed eyes
  • Do not resume normal activities like driving, cooking, etc.
  • Do not use electronic devices
  • Do not watch TV

Preventing Photokeratitis in the Future

You can prevent this from reoccurring by practicing simple lifestyle habits. Wear sunglasses outdoors or invest in transition prescription eyeglasses. Get regulareye exams in Riverdale, NJ to help keep eyes healthy. Avoid the use of UV “grow lights” and antibacterial lights.

Dangers of UV Radiation

Photokeratitis is temporary, but you can suffer long-term effects from chronic overexposure to UV radiation. Consider how your eyes were overexposed and alter the behavior that got you there. Over time, UV radiation can lead to macular degeneration or permanent vision reduction.

If you have any special concerns or questions about photokeratitis or other eye conditions, or to book an appointment, please feel free to contact us today.