Protecting Your Eyes from the Summer Sun
On May 7, 2026, Health Advocates welcomed Lisa Beth Miller from Lighthouse Guild for an informative presentation on protecting eye health and reducing sun-related damage.
Lisa Beth emphasized that maintaining healthy vision starts with everyday habits. She encouraged participants to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam annually, avoid smoking, eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, and prioritize good nighttime sleep. She also stressed the importance of keeping glasses and contact lenses clean and avoiding rubbing the eyes, which can irritate them further. Instead, gently pressing the bones around the eyes may help relieve discomfort.
The presentation highlighted the dangers of sun exposure to the eyes. Damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays is often gradual and may not be immediately noticeable. Excessive sun exposure can lead to photokeratitis — sometimes called “sunburn of the eye” or snow blindness — as well as increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions over time. Symptoms of photokeratitis can include eye pain, headaches, light sensitivity, tearing, redness, swelling, gritty sensations in the eyes, and twitching eyelids.
One of the best ways to protect vision is by wearing proper sunglasses. Sunglasses help block harmful UV rays, reduce glare, and improve contrast, making the eyes feel more comfortable and less strained outdoors. Lisa Beth recommended choosing sunglasses labeled 100% UVA/UVB protection or UV400 protection. Polycarbonate lenses are especially beneficial because they are both protective and impact resistant.
Wearing a wide-brimmed hat, visor, or baseball cap along with sunglasses can further reduce UV exposure. Wraparound or close-fitting sunglasses provide additional protection from glare, especially around water, snow, or while driving. Polarized lenses may also help reduce glare for many people, although different tints do not work equally well for everyone.
Finally, Lisa Beth noted that sunglasses should be replaced every five to ten years, as lenses and protective coatings can wear down over time.
The program was an important and timely reminder that taking simple preventive steps today can help preserve healthy vision for years to come.