Tamil Nadu summer was quite demanding, with scorching sun, intense UV, and inescapable air-borne dust — most of all in urban and desert areas. Eye protection has to be followed to avoid dryness, irritation, sunburn, and long-term damage like cataract or pterygium.
1. Sunglasses with Protection Against UV
• Select glasses with “100% UV protection” or “UV400.”
• Wrap-around frames shield sun and dust both.
• Polarized sunglasses cut glare from road and water surfaces — ideal for car driving or beach recreation.
• Don’t wear cheaply tinted glasses that lack UV protection; they dilate eyes and help cause UV exposure.
2. Wear a Broad-Brimmed Hat or Cap
• Broad-brimmed hat (minimum 3 inches wide) or cotton-visored cap can cut direct sun to your eyes by up to 50%.
• In outdoor or field workplace settings, add a dupatta or scarf over a hat for extra covering.
3. Stay Away from Dust
If you drive to work or work where dust is a factor:
• Wear protective glasses or riding goggles.
• Wear a nose-and-mouth-covering scarf or face mask to minimize dust in the eyes.
Keep an itty-bitty bottle of sterile lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) available to flush out dust and lubricate.
4. Lubricate Your Eyes
Dry air, warmth, and ceiling fans together may cause dry eyes.
• Blink often, especially when reading or working with the computer.
• Drink plenty of water, buttermilk, tender coconut water, etc.
• Preservative-free tears are to be instilled twice a day if there is burning and sandiness.
5. Not Looking Directly at the Sun
• Don’t look directly at the sun, even during sunrises and sunsets — it can cause retinal damage.
• Wear sunglasses and shade wherever it is available during temple celebrations or ceremonies where sunlight exposure is prolonged.
6. Be Sun-Sensitive
Certain medication or eye disease can lead to light sensitivity (photophobia).
• If eyes water excessively or are light-sensitive, see an ophthalmologist.
• They can also prescribe a photochromic lens which darkens in sun exposure.
7. Feed Eye Health with Diet
Eat food rich in:
• Vitamin A – papaya, spinach, drumstick leaves, carrots.
• Omega-3 fatty acids – fish, walnuts, flaxseed.
• Vitamin C and antioxidants – citrus fruits, guava, tomatoes.
They guard against sun-induced oxidative damage.
8. When Inside
• Don’t place direct fan or A/C air on your eyes.
• Humidifier or a bowl of water in rooms with A/C to keep the humidity up.
9. Annual Eye Exams
• Get your eyes examined once a year, particularly if you work outside or travel often.