Summer is almost here, bringing bright sunny days, rising temperatures and increased danger to your eyes. While the peak of summer brings plenty of time for long days at the beach and hikes through the woods, it also brings an increase in UV rays that can damage your eyes. Prolonged UV exposure has serious risks for your eyes including cataracts, growths and even cancer. Fortunately, protecting your eyes doesn't have to be difficult, and these daily habits can help.
1. Wear sunglasses to block UV light
Exposing your eyes to ultraviolet rays may cause damage over time. Wearing sunglasses can block harmful UV light, lowering your risk of eye diseases like cataracts, sunburn, eye cancer and growths around the eye, per the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Polarized glasses with smoke or gray lenses may offer the best protection against the sun's rays and reduce glare.
2. Take screen breaks every 20 minutes
Prolonged screen time can cause dry eyes, pain in the neck and shoulders, blurred vision, headaches and digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome. The American Optometric Association recommends using the 20-20-20 rule to prevent computer vision syndrome. Every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
