In addition to bringing higher temperatures, summer can mean a change in habits, exposing our bodies to external factors such as salty sea water, chlorine in swimming pools, exposure to the sun or “foreign” pathogens. May cause problems for our eye health.
“Although we can suffer from eye diseases in any month of the year, in Spain, where summers are hot and getting longer, we can notice dry eye, keratitis, irritant conjunctivitis due to excessive exposure to salt water or chlorine in swimming pools, and problems related to prolonged sun exposure on the beach or in the mountains,” he explained. Daniel Pérez, ophthalmologist at the University Hospital of Torrejón, Madrid.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun Prolonged exposure can cause inflammation of the cornea of the eye. “In the long run, these radiations can increase the incidence of cataracts or macular degeneration because it creates oxidative stress on our eyes,” warns Perez. Additionally, he recommends using approved Sunglasses, if possible, combine them with a hat or cap: “If you wear bad-quality, dark-tinted sunglasses, they block our eyes, dilate the pupil, and let UV rays get in more places.” , causing damage to the cornea, lens and retina.
Not All Risk Factors Linked to Sunlight, But It’s Necessary Protecting sight of certain elements we find in water. Sea salt can absorb moisture from the eye, which can cause irritation and dry eyes, while the chlorine used in swimming pools can unbalance the protective layer of the eye surface, causing irritation and redness.
Additionally, amoebas, bacteria, and/or infectious diseases coexist in seawater and pool water, and if we dived into it and opened our eyes, it could affect our eye health. These infections can even lead to serious conditions, producing ulcers or keratitis, which can be superinfected by the bacteria or amoebas. Contact lens wearers are more vulnerable to these injuriesso it’s important not to shower with them on.
Ronald Sánchez, ophthalmologist and specialist in Milanzaremember that “goggles must be used when diving. Its use will prevent eye injuries such as irritative keratoconjunctivitis or the declaration of open conditions that have hitherto not troubled us and may be affected.
They are an absolute must in swimming pools Chlorine can cause eye stinging, redness and burning: “Exposure to chlorine and other chemical products used to maintain pool water can alter the tear film and leave the eye unprotected, causing redness, discomfort and blurred vision,” he continued.
Another problem that can occur with these dates is dry eye syndrome. To avoid this, the Fernandez Vega Eye Institute (IOFV) recommends controlling environmental factors such as using air conditioning and protecting yourself from the sun and wind.
when traveling to a foreign country
Finally, there is traveler’s disease, the disease that occurs when we travel to certain countries. Caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, some can affect the health of our eyes, causing discomfort and, in severe cases, impairing vision.
Onchocerciasis, or infectious conjunctivitis, are the two most common travel illnesses that affect vision health.in the case of Onchocerciasis, known as river blindnessIt is spread through the bite of an infected black fly. Ocular involvement ranges from mild visual impairment to complete blindness. In areas where the disease is endemic, such as Brazil, Venezuela and Africa, preventive measures such as using insect repellants and wearing protective clothing are essential.
on the other hand is infectious conjunctivitis. Its causes are varied, “although it is mainly caused by bacteria, viruses, germs or allergens found in the environment. As for its infectivity, it has a transmission window of 7 to 14 days, and it only needs to be contacted with an infected person before It can be spread by putting your hands over your eyes after touching a surface or object,” he said. Luis Fernández-Vega Cueto-Felgueroso via IOFV.
“Prevention is the best tool we have to preserve vision as we explore the world. Therefore, it is imperative Be very hygienic and wash your hands frequentlyuse approved eyeglasses, do not share towels, sheets, clothing, makeup, or facial sunscreen — especially if infection is suspected — and avoid rubbing eyes,” the experts concluded.