Skip to content
Summer is the season of outdoor fun, sports, travel, and home improvement projects. But while you’re enjoying the sunshine, it’s important to be aware of a hidden risk which is preventable eye injuries. Each year, thousands of people end up in the emergency room with eye injuries that could have been avoided with proper protection and awareness. From UV exposure and sports-related incidents to yard work and chemical splashes, summer poses unique risks to your eye health.
The Summer Sun and UV Damage
One of the most underestimated threats to eye health in the summer is ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the cornea, lens, and retina, leading to conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even cancer of the eyelids. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, along with a wide-brimmed hat to provide extra shade.
Kids are especially vulnerable, as their eyes are more transparent and absorb more UV light. Make sure your entire family is protected during outdoor activities, whether you’re hiking, boating, or simply lounging at the beach.
Sports-Related Eye Injuries
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, over 30,000 sports-related eye injuries are treated in U.S. emergency rooms each year. Basketball, baseball, and racquet sports are among the top culprits. Most of these injuries involve blunt trauma, corneal abrasions, or foreign objects entering the eye. Many of which can cause long-term damage or vision loss.
Athletes, especially youth players, should be encouraged to wear sport-specific protective eyewear made from polycarbonate lenses. At Performance Eyecare, we offer customized solutions and prescription sports goggles to keep players safe without compromising performance or vision clarity.
Pool Chemicals and Chlorine Exposure
A refreshing swim is a summertime staple, but pool chemicals can be harsh on your eyes. Chlorine and other disinfectants can cause redness, irritation, and even chemical burns if the concentration is too high. Always rinse your eyes with clean water after swimming and wear swim goggles, especially in public or highly chlorinated pools.
For those who wear contact lenses, it’s best to remove them before swimming to reduce the risk of infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but serious condition that can lead to blindness.
Yard Work and DIY Projects
From mowing lawns to trimming hedges or doing a little home renovation, summer is prime time for outdoor chores. But these tasks also pose significant eye injury risks. Flying debris, wood chips, dust, and even fertilizers can easily come into contact with your eyes.
Protective safety glasses or goggles should be worn during all yard work or construction activities. Additionally, ensure tools and equipment are in good working condition, and never point sprays or chemicals toward your face. Even a tiny speck of debris can lead to corneal scratches or infections if not treated promptly.
Workplace Eye Injuries in the Heat
For those who work outdoors during the summer like landscapers, construction workers, lifeguards; eye safety is just as crucial on the job as it is at play. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), approximately 2,000 workplace eye injuries occur daily in the U.S. Many of these are due to inadequate or missing eye and face protection.
Employers should ensure all workers have access to proper safety gear, and employees should make it a habit to wear eye protection tailored to their specific tasks, whether that’s impact-resistant glasses or shaded lenses for UV protection.
When Foreign Bodies Enter the Eye
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. A small metal shard, a piece of glass, or even a grain of sand can cause severe damage if it enters the eye. If you experience sudden pain, blurred vision, or feel like something is stuck in your eye, do not rub it. Instead, flush the eye gently with clean water and seek immediate medical attention from one of our professionals since we specialize in eyecare emergencies.
Preventing Eye Injuries: Tips That Make a Difference
- Always wear sunglasses that offer 100% UVA/UVB protection.
- Use protective eyewear for all sports, yard work, and DIY projects.
- Be cautious around chemicals and avoid touching your eyes after handling them.
- Supervise children closely during outdoor play and swimming.
- Avoid swimming with contacts unless you wear waterproof, protective goggles.
- Keep first aid kits with saline solution or artificial tears on hand for emergencies.
Emergency Eye Care with Performance Eyecare
At Performance Eyecare, your vision is our top priority. Whether you’re in the game, at work, or relaxing at the lake. Our experienced team is equipped to handle a range of urgent eye issues, from injuries and infections to sudden vision changes. If you or a loved one experiences an eye injury this summer, don’t wait. Prompt care can be the difference between a quick recovery and long-term damage.
We also specialize in custom eyewear and sport-specific vision solutions designed to protect your eyes while enhancing performance. Whether you’re gearing up for the season or recovering from an injury, Performance Eyecare is here to help.
Summer should be a time for adventure, not accidents. Take the right steps to protect your eyes and enjoy the season with confidence and clarity. Schedule an eye exam or request a quote with Performance Eyecare today and keep your vision safe all summer long!
At Performance Eyecare we put the CARE in Eyecare.