Summer has arrived, and as we near Healthy Vision Month, visits to the pool will become more frequent. Pools provide an excellent means to beat the heat and enjoy, but they also pose certain risks to your eyes. Bladen Eye Center dedicates itself to ensuring that you can enjoy your time in the pool while keeping your eyes healthy and safe.
Summer Eye Safety Tips From Our Elizabethtown Optometrists
Be Wary of Chlorine
Chlorine keeps pools clean but can be harsh on your eyes. Exposure can strip away the film that protects your eyes, leading to redness, irritation, and a condition known as swimmer’s eye.
To avoid irritation from chlorine, always wear swim goggles when you are in the pool. Make sure they fit snugly and create a good seal around your eyes to prevent water from getting in.
Shield Your Eyes from UV Rays
Even at the pool, UV rays can cause significant damage to your eyes. Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever you're not in the water. For added safety, choose sunglasses that wrap around the sides of your face to block rays coming in from different angles.
A wide-brimmed hat can also help reduce exposure to UV rays, protecting your eyes and sensitive skin.
Keep Your Contact Lenses Out
Wearing contact lenses while swimming increases your risk of eye infections, including serious conditions like Acanthamoeba keratitis. The water can harbor bacteria and other pathogens that can adhere to your lenses, leading to infection.
If you need vision correction, opt for prescription swim goggles rather than wearing contact lenses in the pool.
Maintain Good Eye Hygiene
Maintaining good eye hygiene is crucial, especially when spending time at the pool, where exposure to chlorine and other irritants is common. Here are some enhanced tips to keep your eyes healthy:
Rinse Your Eyes After Swimming
Remaining your eyes with clean, fresh water immediately after swimming is essential. This helps remove any residual chlorine or other chemicals that could cause irritation or discomfort. Using a preservative-free saline solution can also be effective for a more thorough rinse.
Use Clean Towels
We recommend delicately blotting your eyes with a clean, soft towel to dry them. This will help prevent unnecessary irritation or discomfort. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can irritate them further and potentially transfer pathogens or allergens to the surface of your eyes.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can lead to decreased tear production, resulting in dry and irritated eyes. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and eyes hydrated and maintain natural moisture levels in your eyes.
Practice Safe Handling of Eye Products
When applying sunscreen and lotion, be careful not to get it in your eyes. Apply these products well away from the eye area to prevent accidental contamination, which can cause burning and temporary blurring of vision.
Regular Eye Check-Ups: Schedule a Visit At Bladen Eye Center
Regular check-ups at Bladen Eye Center can help catch and address any eye issues early, ensuring your vision stays clear and healthy. This is especially important if you spend a lot of time in the pool during the summer.
For more advice on how to protect your eyes at the pool or to schedule an eye exam, visit Bladen Eye Center. Our team is here to ensure that your summer is fun and safe for your vision.