Summer is one of the best times of the year in Montana, when the skies are blue, the air is warm and the outdoor opportunities are endless. However, keeping your eyes protected as you explore Montana and beyond is important to keep in mind.
Whether you’re exploring the local trails, hitting the beach or jetting off to a faraway land, here are some helpful tips to preserve your eye health before you take off for a vacation this summer:
Keep Your Shades On
Sunny days are part of what makes summer great, but the sun can also wreak havoc on your eyes without taking proper precautions.
Ultraviolet (UVA) rays produced by the sun can damage the eyes over time, potentially leading to cataracts, macular degeneration and photokeratitis, also known as “sunburned eyes.” Those with prolonged exposure to UVA rays without proper eye protection may also be more at-risk for eye cancers and growths on the eye.
To minimize your risk, wear sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB ray protection on sunny and cloudy days; UVA rays can pass through clouds and windows, meaning you can be exposed to them even on cloudy days or indoors. Wraparound styles and large-lens models offer extra coverage.
Wearing a wide-brimmed hat can also help to block sunlight from reaching your eyes – and comes with the bonus of reducing eye strain from squinting in bright sunlight.
Stay Road Trip-Ready
Bringing along an eye care travel kit when traveling is a great way to keep your eyes in good shape when on the road or in the air.
Eye health essentials include backup pairs of contacts, glasses and sunglasses, travel-size bottles of contact solution, eye drops and any prescription eye medication you may need.
If you’re traveling to a destination in a different setting than what you’re used to, be aware of allergens in new environments and be prepared. Antihistamine eye drops and over-the-counter allergy medications are good ways to reduce irritation.
Have Goggles Nearby
Whether you’re in the pool or out in nature, the elements can greatly affect your eyes and contribute to discomfort. Having eye protection on hand when you’re enjoying outdoor activities can help to protect them.
Chlorine and salt water can irritate the eyes and potentially lead to infections like conjunctivitis, while chemicals and microbes in lakes and rivers can also impact your eyes. Wearing tight-fitting swim goggles can help keep irritants out – while also helping you see clearly underwater.
Dry-landers who prefer activities such as boating, biking or hiking may experience dry, irritated eyes due to wind and dust. Protective eyewear, such as wraparound sunglasses or sports goggles, can help keep debris out of your sight.
Maintain Healthy Habits
Though it’s important to enjoy your summer vacations, it’s just as important to continue to practice a good routine for general body health (including your eyes) when you’re away from home.
Continue to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re outdoors or exercising, to keep your eyes’ tear production normal. Reduced tear production can lead to dry eyes and irritation, which can be exacerbated by salty sweat reaching your eyes.
Additionally, travel means that your hands will likely touch things many others have, especially if you’re using shared outdoors equipment such as chairs and benches. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with dirty hands and wash them frequently to reduce risk.
Reach Out For Relief
The team at Bauer & Clausen Optometry wishes you an enjoyable summer – at home or wherever your plans may take you. And if you are ever in need of eye care, our friendly providers are here to help.
Schedule an appointment online at billingseyedocs.com or call 406-656-8886. We look to seeing you soon.
