Your Eyes After Summer: 6 Things to Check Before Fall

Summer may be winding down, but your eyes may still be feeling the effects of long days in the sun, time outdoors, swimming, travel, and extra screen time. As September arrives and routines shift back into school, work, and everyday life, it's a great time to give your eye health a little attention. 

Here are six things to check as you transition from summer to fall. 

1. How Much Sun Exposure Did Your Eyes Get? 

Summer often means more time outdoors, which also means more exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Just like your skin, your eyes can be affected by cumulative UV exposure. 

Make sure your sunglasses are still in good condition and that you continue wearing them whenever you're outside. Look for sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. A wide-brimmed hat can provide additional protection on especially sunny days. 

And don't put your sunglasses away just because summer is over—UV exposure occurs year-round, including on bright fall days. 

2. Are Your Eyes Feeling Dry or Irritated? 

Between air conditioning, outdoor activities, wind, pool water, and increased screen time, summer can sometimes leave your eyes feeling dry, gritty, or irritated. 

Simple habits such as taking regular breaks from screens, remembering to blink frequently, staying hydrated, and avoiding direct airflow from fans or air-conditioning vents may help keep your eyes more comfortable.

If irritation continues, your eye doctor can help determine what's causing your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. 

3. Did You Take Care of Your Contact Lenses? 

Summer activities can create some unique challenges for contact lens wearers. Swimming, traveling, sunscreen, sweat, and spending more time outdoors can all make contact lens care a little more complicated. 

As you head into fall, take a moment to check your contact lens habits. 

Make sure you're: 

• Washing and drying your hands before handling lenses 

• Following your recommended replacement schedule 

• Cleaning and storing reusable lenses properly 

• Replacing your contact lens case regularly 

• Avoiding sleeping in lenses unless specifically approved by your eye doctor

• Removing contact lenses before swimming unless you're using appropriate protective measures 

If your contacts don't feel as comfortable as they used to, don't simply push through the discomfort. Changes in comfort or vision can be a reason to have your eyes and contact lens fit evaluated. 

4. How Much Screen Time Did You Get This Summer? 

Summer vacation can mean more time on tablets, phones, computers, televisions, and video games. Once school and work routines begin again, screen time may increase even further. 

Long periods of digital device use can contribute to tired, dry, or uncomfortable eyes. 

Try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. It can also help to take longer breaks when possible and remember to blink regularly while concentrating on a screen. 

For children, balancing screen time with outdoor play and other activities is an important part of maintaining healthy habits. 

5. Did Your Eyes Get Enough Protection During Summer Activities?

Think back over your summer. Did you spend time at the pool, lake, beach, or on the water? Did you participate in sports or outdoor activities? 

Different activities can expose your eyes to additional risks. Protective eyewear can help reduce the chance of eye injuries during sports, home projects, and other activities where objects or debris could reach the eyes. 

If your child participates in school sports this fall, make sure they have appropriate protective eyewear recommended for their activity. 

And if you experienced an eye injury this summer—even one that seemed minor—mention it to your eye doctor, particularly if you have experienced lingering pain, redness, light sensitivity, or vision changes. 

6. When Was Your Last Eye Exam? 

September is an excellent time to think about your next comprehensive eye examination. 

Even when your vision seems perfectly clear, an eye exam is about more than determining whether you need glasses. A comprehensive examination can evaluate the health of your eyes and may help identify certain eye conditions before you notice changes in your vision. 

For families, September can also be a convenient reminder to make sure everyone is up to date with their eye care—especially children who are back in the classroom and spending their days reading, viewing whiteboards, and using digital devices. 

A Fresh Season Is a Great Time for a Fresh Start 

As we say goodbye to summer and settle into the routines of fall, don't forget to include your eyes in your seasonal reset. 

Take a look at your sunglasses, review your contact lens habits, pay attention to dry or irritated eyes, take regular screen breaks, and make sure you're staying current with your eye examinations. 

Your eyes work hard every day. September is a great time to give them the attention they deserve. 

Ready for Your Fall Eye Check? 

If it's been a while since your last eye examination—or if you've noticed changes in your vision or eye comfort—Bensenville Eye Care is here to help.

Contact our office to schedule your next comprehensive eye exam and start the fall season seeing your best!