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The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
Thomas P. Finley, OD
Spring and Summer Eyecare Tips
Dr. Finley's Family Eyecare
. http://visionsource-drfinley.net/

Spring and Summer Eyecare Tips

Eye Allergies

Even though temperatures fluctuate from one day to another, one thing seems constant in our area a high pollen count. Many people experience the discomfort accompanying allergy season.

If you’re affected by seasonal allergies, and experience eye irritation, relief is in sight. Many new anti-allergy eye drops and therapies are now available to help soothe your eyes and decrease the annoying symptoms that occur. Inform your eye doctor of your symptoms so he can help you survive allergy season (which in our area can last all year) as best as possible.

One good and simple remedy in combating eye allergy problems is a cold compress. Place a few ice cubes in a zip lock bag, close your eyes, and rest the compress on your eyelids for ten minutes. This helps minimize feelings of needing to rub your eyes, which only makes itching worse. Cold compress also decreases swelling and help constrict blood vessels around the eye, slowing histamine release that causes itching. For young children, it’s often easier using cold compresses than fighting to get drops in their eyes.

People wearing contact lenses may be more susceptible to some eye allergies. Switching to a more frequently replaced lens like daily disposables keeps clean lenses on the eyes at all times and helps guard against allergic conjunctivitis and other problems. They also require no solutions which can also trigger allergic reactions. Swimming with contact lenses is extremely dangerous and increases the risk of serious sight threatening eye infections.

Protection Against the Sun

Bright sunlight causes us to squint which can strain our eyes, but the truly harmful effects of the sun may not show themselves for years. Long-term exposure to UV rays can cause early cataracts, skin cancers around the eyes, and macular degeneration.

Eyeglass wearers should have transition lenses that darken outdoors, sunglass clip-ons over clear glasses, or a second pair of prescription sunglasses. Quality sunglasses prevent dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun from damaging our eyes. This is especially important for children who spend significantly more time outdoors during the summer months exposed to harmful UV rays.

Protection Against Injuries

Sports involving bats, racquets and fast moving objects are high on the eye injury list, and can cause serious sight threatening damage. Also, chores like mowing the grass or weed whacking can cause a projectile shot of a rock or stone at such a high velocity that it can cause severe injury to your eye. Make certain to wear protective goggles or that your sunglasses have impact resistant lenses.

Beware of fireworks. Firecrackers are responsible for many eye injuries every year. Common sense is crucial to prevent eye accidents, especially among children.

Enjoy the spring and summer, but protect your eyes and vision also. Take advantage of the many eye wear and vision care options available to make you more comfortable, provide better eye health, and even make a great fashion statement.

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