UV Safety Awareness Month: Protecting Your Vision This Summer in Nashua, NH
Summer in Nashua, New Hampshire brings long days outdoors, from lake trips and golf outings to backyard barbecues and evening walks. While most people remember to apply sunscreen before heading out, far fewer think about protecting their eyes from the sun’s effects. July is recognized as both UV Safety Awareness Month and Eye Injury Prevention Month, making it the perfect time to focus on vision health. At Nashua Ambulatory Surgical Center (NASC), our experienced ophthalmologists see firsthand how cumulative sun exposure and everyday accidents can affect eyesight over time. Here is what you need to know about protecting your eyes this summer, and when it may be time to schedule an eye exam.
How UV Rays Affect Your Eyes
The same UV-A and UV-B rays that damage skin also affect the eyes. Short-term overexposure, often from a day at the beach, lake, or on the water without proper eyewear, can cause photokeratitis, sometimes called a sunburn of the eye, which leads to redness, pain, and light sensitivity that usually resolves within a day or two. The bigger concern is long-term, cumulative exposure. Years of UV exposure are strongly linked to the development of cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that gradually blurs vision. UV exposure has also been associated with pterygium, a growth on the surface of the eye, and may contribute to macular degeneration. Because these effects build up gradually, many people do not notice changes until vision is already affected.
Everyday Ways to Protect Your Vision This Summer
Protecting your eyes does not have to be complicated. Choose sunglasses labeled to block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays, rather than relying on tint alone, which does not indicate UV protection. Wraparound styles offer added protection during high-glare activities like boating, fishing, or golfing, and a wide-brimmed hat adds another layer of defense. Try to limit direct sun exposure during peak UV hours, generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and remember that children’s eyes are especially vulnerable, so make sunglasses part of their summer routine too. These small habits, repeated over a lifetime, can meaningfully reduce the risk of UV-related eye conditions later in life.
When Sun Damage Becomes a Medical Concern
While good sun habits help prevent future problems, some vision changes need professional evaluation regardless of the cause. Watch for cloudy or blurry vision, increased sensitivity to glare, halos around lights at night, or colors that seem faded. These can be early signs of cataracts, which become more common with age and cumulative UV exposure. Persistent redness, pain, or vision changes following a day in the sun should also be evaluated promptly. An eye exam is the only way to know for certain what is causing these symptoms and whether treatment is needed. Catching changes early often means more treatment options and a better long-term outcome.
Outpatient Cataract and Eye Care at NASC
For patients who do need treatment, Nashua Ambulatory Surgical Center offers select outpatient eye procedures performed by experienced, board-certified ophthalmologists, including cataract and glaucoma care. Our AAAHC-accredited, multi-specialty surgical center is designed for comfort and efficiency, so most patients go home the same day and begin recovery in familiar surroundings. As part of our physician team, our ophthalmologists work closely with patients to explain every step of the process, from initial evaluation through post-procedure follow-up. If you have been putting off an eye exam, or if summer sun exposure has you thinking more about vision health, our team is here to help.
Eye Injury Prevention Beyond the Sun
July’s dual focus on UV Safety and Eye Injury Prevention is a reminder that vision health is about more than sunglasses. Yard work, grilling, fireworks, and summer sports all carry a real risk of eye injury, and a simple pair of safety glasses can prevent many of them. If an injury does occur, prompt evaluation matters, since some conditions benefit from early treatment to preserve vision. For longer-term or surgical needs, our ophthalmology team is ready to provide expert, outpatient-based care close to home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UV Safety Awareness Month?
UV Safety Awareness Month, observed every July, was established to raise public awareness about the risks of ultraviolet radiation and encourage habits like wearing sunglasses, hats, and protective eyewear.
Can sun exposure really cause cataracts?
Yes. Numerous studies have linked long-term, cumulative UV exposure to an increased risk of developing cataracts, along with other eye conditions like pterygium.
What should I look for when buying sunglasses?
Look for a label confirming 100 percent protection from UVA and UVB rays. Darker lenses or higher prices do not guarantee UV protection, so check the label specifically.
How do I know if I need cataract surgery?
Common signs include blurry or cloudy vision, increased glare sensitivity, halos around lights, and faded colors. An eye exam can confirm whether cataracts are present and discuss treatment options if needed.
Does NASC perform outpatient eye surgery?
Yes. NASC offers select outpatient eye procedures, including cataract surgery, performed by experienced ophthalmologists in our AAAHC-accredited surgical center in Nashua, NH.
This July, take a few simple steps to protect your eyes from the sun and from everyday accidents. If you are experiencing vision changes or have questions about cataract surgery or other ophthalmology services, the team at Nashua Ambulatory Surgical Center is here to help. Visit nascnh.com or call (603) 882-0950 to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified ophthalmologists.