How to protect your eyes from the heat during the holidays

Many people often only pay attention to protecting their skin but forget to protect their eyes from the summer sun. Science has proven that excessive exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of developing cataracts and some types of eye cancer. These are all effects of UV rays.

UV radiation can be formed from natural sunlight or artificial sources from machines, which can cause some eye diseases, on the surface of the eyeball such as the cornea, lens... In particular, sunlight reflected from white sand and water can cause photokeratitis.

To protect your eyes from sunlight, the American Optometric Association recommends:

Wear sunglasses that are labeled 100% UV blocking.

- Should use glasses that block both UV A and B rays, glasses labeled UV400 or 100% UV protection.

- Choose glasses with wide rims so that light cannot enter your eyes from the side.

- If you use UV-protective contact lenses, you should still wear additional sunglasses.

Wear a hat with glasses

Wide-brimmed hats are best.

Don't neglect children

It is best to not let children play in the sun at noon, be exposed to direct sunlight, and always have children wear glasses and hats whenever they have to go out in the sun.

Clouds do not block UV rays.

Radiation in sunlight can penetrate clouds and is harmful all year round, not just in the summer.

Beware of high intensity UV rays

Sunlight has the highest UV intensity at noon and early afternoon. UV rays also increase with altitude and are especially strong when reflected from water and snow.

First aid

If you experience burning, watery eyes, or reduced vision after excessive sunbathing, give yourself first aid as follows:

- Cold compress around the eyes, cold towel is also fine.

- Use artificial tears or saline solution continuously.

- See an eye specialist.