Allegheny Health Network Shares Summer Eye Health and Safety Tips as Outdoor Activities Increase

PITTSBURGH — With more people spending time outdoors during the summer months, physicians with Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Ophthalmology are encouraging individuals and families to take simple steps to protect their eyes from seasonal risks, including sun exposure, allergens and preventable injuries.

“Many people think about protecting their skin in the summer, but eye health is just as important,” said Deval Paranjpe, MD, MBA, FACS, chair, AHN Ophthalmology. “From UV exposure to sports injuries to debris and bacteria, there are several factors this time of year that can put your vision at risk. Fortunately, most of these risks are preventable with a few simple precautions.”

AHN experts recommend incorporating the following tips into your summer routine:

• Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection: Protect against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, made up of UVA and UVB rays, which can contribute to long-term conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. A wide-brimmed hat can provide additional protection.
• Use protective eyewear during yard work, home repairs and outdoor activities: Lawn mowing, weed whacking, and DIY projects can send debris into the air. The same is true for sports and hikes in wooded areas, where branches or other objects can cause injury.
• Take extra precautions after eye surgery: Patients who have had procedures such as LASIK or cataract surgery should be especially diligent about wearing protective eyewear to help prevent irritation or lasting damage.
• Manage eye health during allergy season: Pollen and other allergens can lead to redness, itching and irritation. Avoid rubbing your eyes and seek treatment if symptoms persist.
• Avoid swimming with contact lenses: Pools, lakes and hot tubs can expose eyes to harmful microorganisms, including Acanthamoeba, a rare but serious cause of eye infection.
• Give your eyes a break from screens and the sun: Heat, sun exposure and prolonged screen time can all contribute to dryness and irritation. Follow the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Stay well hydrated and consider using artificial tears to keep eyes comfortable throughout the day.

Dr. Paranjpe also advises seeking prompt care for symptoms such as persistent redness, pain, blurred vision or sensitivity to light.

AHN Ophthalmology offers a full spectrum of advanced eye care services, including comprehensive eye exams, treatment for cornea and external disease, retinal surgery, cataract surgery, oculoplastic and orbital surgery, retinal screenings, and management of conditions like dry eye, macular degeneration and thyroid eye disease. Its offices are located at AHN Allegheny General Hospital, AHN West Penn Hospital, and Premier Medical Associates in Forest Hills.

To learn more about AHN Ophthalmology services, visit www.ahn.org/services/surgery/ophthalmology. To schedule an appointment, call (412) 359-6300. 

Media Contact:

Emily Mashore
(412) 552-0402
emily.mashore@highmarkhealth.org