Healthy Eyes In Summer

The eyes are an area prone to problems in summer. It is estimated that eye disorders increase by 20% during this time of year: the sun, sea salt, chlorine in swimming pools, air conditioning and even increased levels of pollution in urban areas are the cause of eye irritation , dryness, etc.

It is possible to reduce its incidence by taking into account some tips.

Take care of them and protect them

First of all, it must be taken into account that the intensity of sunlight is greater and worse in environments such as the beach because the sand reflects the rays.

In the mountains, if there is snow, the light is also reflected and, in any case, the altitude makes the intensity of the ultraviolet and infrared radiation greater. Therefore, you must wear sunglasses with an ultraviolet (UV) filter, especially to avoid long-term problems.

Although excessive sun exposure in these environments can injure the cornea (snow conjunctivitis), it is in long-term processes that its effects can be most harmful. Ultraviolet light accelerates oxidation and aging of fabrics.

The eyes are one of the organs most affected by free radicals. Oxidation is especially related to retinal problems such as DEMAE (Macular Degeneration of Age) and the appearance of cataracts. Also with the pterygium (popularly known as “palm trees”).

Trouble in the air

The entry of foreign bodies is also a common problem in summer, as more time is spent outdoors. In the event that a foreign body enters the eye, such as a speck of dust, the first thing to do is wash the eye with plenty of water or, if possible, with physiological saline, which are sold in pharmacies in single-dose containers and without preservatives.

In children, it is typical for sand to enter and stay under the upper eyelid, so washing should be done by lifting the eyelid. If the discomfort persists, it is necessary to consult an ophthalmologist since sometimes the foreign body remains embedded.

In dry environments such as those generated by air conditioners, people with dry eyes, and especially marginal dry eyes, develop eye irritation due to lack of tears. To counteract this effect there are artificial tears, some of them homeopathic. It is preferable to choose those that are sold in single-dose containers without preservatives.

They must be used frequently, about six times a day in people with dry eye problems and who are in dry environments, to avoid the sensation of grit, burning and reflex tearing.

In the water

Water is one of the main causes of disorders. Pools with too much chlorine cause eye irritation and, if not sufficiently disinfected, eye infections and conjunctivitis.

The chlorine chemically assaults corneal epithelial cells and injured. Also the pH level generates irritation when it is too basic or acidic.

If the pool is poorly disinfected it can induce an eye infection, which manifests itself as a red eye, pain, sensitivity to light and a sensation of grit or burning. Normally with proper treatment it resolves in a week, but in severe cases keratitis develops .

The most serious is that produced by acanthamoeba, a protozoan that lives in stagnant waters. Therefore, if you notice any of the above symptoms, it is necessary to go to an ophthalmologist for an emergency evaluation.

Keratitis differs from conjunctivitis because the cornea is invaded by the pathogen and can lead to tissue necrosis and even eye perforation.

On the other hand, sea ​​water, especially that of the Mediterranean, causes irritation in the eyes due to excess salt. It corresponds again to a chemical attack and therefore of the epithelium. For this reason, the use of artificial tears or physiological saline is recommended after a sea bath, especially if you have dived with your eyes open.