The end of summer season is about more than just getting used to the school year and getting ready for football season. We think it's a great time to think about the health of your eyes! When you stop to consider the remaining sunny days of summer, as well as all of the activities that are about to kick off in the busy fall, there are few better times on the calendar to take a few minutes and focus on your eyes. Take advantage of this time of year when schedules are usually a bit more flexible and consider these end of summer tips to focus on your eyes.

1. Buy a New Pair of Sunglasses- Sunglasses aren't just a fashion accessory. If you purchase sunglasses that block 99%-100% of both UVA and UVB rays, you are protecting your eyes from the damage that can be caused by the sun's radiation. Recent studies from the National Eye Institute show that sun exposure has a dramatic effect on the development of cataracts, placing even more importance on eye protection. Also, for the sake of your eyes and skin, consider wearing a hat when spending any time outside. We'd love to see you at the Allied Eye Optical Shop to show our new line of stylish sunglasses!
2. Wear Goggles in the Pool- While goggles enable you to see clearly in the pool, they also protect your eyes from redness and irritation from pH levels in the pool water. Chlorine and other chemicals used to keep the pool water clean and safe often cause eye irritation. Additionally, we see a significant number of eye infections this time of year that are largely caused by the bacteria that can live in pools. Also, you are more likely to lose a contact if you swim without goggles! Sick of your contacts? We can help with that too!
3. Use Eye Drops for Allergies- If you suffer from seasonal allergies often the summer provides a much-needed break. However, many of us struggle even more at this time of year because of the dryer weather than can cause dust and grass pollen. When your eyes are irritated, you can scratch your cornea or another part of your eye unintentionally, causing additional damage and pain. Eye infections regularly result from rubbing and scratching your eyes as well, so take care to wash your hands and avoid touching your eye area with your hands.
4. Get Plenty of Rest- We all know that an adequate amount of sleep can help our body stay healthy, but a lack of rest can have an impact on your vision too. Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (damage to your optic nerve that causes eye pain and makes it difficult to see clearly), glaucoma, and eye spasms are all potential issues caused by a lack of sleep. So, in order to keep your eyes strong and healthy, make sure you get plenty of sleep at night- and a nap on the weekend. With the sun staying up later, it's easy to get to bed later in the summer, but your overall health relies on consistent and significant amounts of rest!
5. Get an Eye Exam- It's a fantastic time of year to get your regular eye exam, especially if you have kids! As the Fall gets busier, numerous challenges can present themselves to scheduling eye exams, especially considering after-school activities. With classes starting soon, make sure your entire family receives an annual eye exam and that your prescriptions are up-to-date. Dr. Matzkin can spot changes in your eye health if you are routinely attending your vision well checks.

To schedule your eye exam, contact us at Allied Eye at (423) 855-8522.