Summer is synonymous with holidays, sea, swimming pools and travel, but our eyes can be put to the test by these pleasant moments of leisure and relaxation. Sun, chlorine, sand and air conditioning are often underestimated, when it comes to eye health. We asked Dr. Gaspare Monaco, head of the Oculisitica Unit of the IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, to guide us through the most common risks and good practices to protect the view during the summer season. A vademecum useful not only for those who already have eye problems, but for anyone who wants to enjoy the summer without bad surprises.
Doctor, let’s start with the undisputed protagonist of the summer: the sun. What effects can it have on the human eye?
The sun has an important impact on our eyes, in many cases even more than we imagine. The ultraviolet radiation (UV) and blue light, in fact, directly affect the most exposed eye structures. Among the most acute damage is the attinical keratitis, a sort of “scald” of the cornea, which can cause intense pain and annoyance. In the long term, then, the accumulation of radiation can encourage the early appearance of the cataract, with an oxidative mechanism that alters the proteins of the crystalline. In the most serious cases, it can even damage the retina, causing a condition called solar retinopathy, which compromises the central vision.
And what are the indirect effects of sunlight?
One of the main is the formation of free radicals, or ROS (reactive species of oxygen), which generate oxidative stress. This weakens the tear film and brings to dry eye. But not only: the Ros can also alter the vitreous body, causing phenomena such as syncis, syneris and, in some cases, the rear detachment of the vitreous. In the most advanced cases, membranes can form that “pull” the retina, with the risk of developing a macular hole, which is a very serious condition.
Can sunny exposure also have a role in the development of eye cancers?
Yes, unfortunately. Prolonged exposure to UV rays without protection can increase the risk of eye tumors. The most frequent are the squamocellular carcinoma of the conjunctiva and the melanomas, especially the uveal or conjunctivals. UV rays damage the DNA of eye cells, and this over time can turn into an oncological risk.
How can we protect ourselves effectively?
The first rule is to wear sunglasses with UV400 certification, which filter 100% of harmful radiation. Better if enveloping, to limit the entry of light from the sides. Visor hats are further help. Polarized lenses are useful in certain conditions, such as driving, but do not offer specific protection from UV rays. And those who suffer from dry eye should regularly use artificial tears without preservatives.
Let’s talk about swimming pools now: is chlorine really so harmful to the eyes?
Yes, and is often underestimated. Chlorine alters the tear film and irritates the eye surface, especially in indoor swimming pools. Recent studies show that chlorine increases oxidative stress of eye epithelial cells, damaging mitochondria and slowing down cell regeneration. The result? Burn, dryness, annoyance in light and aggravation of symptoms in subjects with dry eye.
And for those who use contact lenses in the pool?
Here the risk is even greater. Contact lenses, especially the soft ones, absorb water as sponges, retaining dangerous microorganisms such as AcanthaMoeba. This protozoan can cause very serious and resistant care of treatment. Furthermore, contrary to what is thought, chlorine does not sterilize the water: it can rather favor the entry of pathogens through the microlesions. This is why I strongly advise against swimming with contact lenses. It is much better to use watertight glasses.
Sand in the eye is a common problem on the beach. What should be done?
It is essential not to rub the eye: you risk scratching the cornea with the grain. The first step is to rinse with plenty of saline solution or clean fresh water, tilting the head to facilitate the leakage of the foreign body. If the annoyance does not pass, or if pain and sensitivity to light appear, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist: even apparently banal injuries can require specific therapy.
And in the mountains? Do the risks for eyes also exist there?
Absolutely yes. In summer, pollen can trigger strong eye allergies. In winter, however, the snow reflects a large amount of UV rays, increasing the exposure. This makes the use of sunglasses even more crucial, especially at high altitude.
During air flights, however, what precautions can be taken?
The planes, especially in long flights, cause strong dehydration of the eye surface due to dry and filtered air. For those who already suffer from dry eye, this can be very annoying. The advice is simple: always bringing a vational one in the suitcase of artificial tears.
Finally, are a curiosity: do the hills based on chamomile or aloe really serve?
If used with criteria, yes. Natural or homeopathic hills can have a soothing and refreshing effect, especially for light inflammation or passenger redness. However, attention must be paid to products with vasoconstrictor: they give an immediate “bleaching” effect, but do not treat the problem and can create addiction, worsening redness in the long run. In general, it is always better to ask the pharmacist or the octoist for advice.
In conclusion, what should never be missing in the “summer kit” for eye health?
Certified sunglasses, artificial tears, swimming pool glasses, a vial of saline solution and a lot of attention. The eyes, often forgotten, are among the most exposed organs during the summer. Protecting them is a simple but fundamental gesture for our health.