At Northwest Eye Surgeons, we know that summer is the time to spend your days outside and bask in the warmth and sunlight. However, we also know the sun has damaging impacts on your eyes. The ultraviolet radiation from the sun is what causes the issues for many things, including our eyes. Even when it’s cloudy outside it’s important to protect your eyes because the UV rays can get through the clouds. This is very similar to your skin’s exposure to the sun as well, you will want to be sure to wear sunscreen even when it’s cloudy outside. 

 

While you can be impacted by the sun’s UV at any time during the year, it is especially important to be cautious of it during the summer months. Places where the UV rays are particularly strong year-round should also be extra cautious of this. These would be places that have sunny days all year – think of places you would most likely go for a beach vacation in the middle of winter. If your eyes have a lot of exposure to the sun’s UV rays, it can cause both short-term and long-term problems to your vision. Some of these issues include photoconjunctivitis, cataracts, cancer, and many other issues as well. 

 

Two great ways that you can help protect your eyes from the harmful exposure of the sun are by wearing sunglasses and hats when you go outside. As a nice bonus, the hat will also help protect your scalp and facial skin and the sunglasses will protect the sensitive skin close to your eyes. It’s important to be checking in on your vision to be sure to catch any issues you may have early on to prevent anything from getting worse. If you want to check on your vision to make sure it’s all good before heading into the sunny days of summer, be sure to get in contact with Northwest Eye Surgeons today!