As our nation experiences an unprecedented heatwave, many are anxious about how it will impact their health. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may result in dehydration and heat stroke, two serious ailments that should not be ignored. However, the heat can also be hard on your eyes. Heat-induced dryness can aggravate pre-existing eye conditions like styes or conjunctivitis and cause red, irritated eyes with a gritty sensation.
Stay Hydrated
Heatwaves are periods of extreme weather which increase the risk of health issues among vulnerable groups such as young children and older adults, particularly vulnerable populations such as vulnerable elderly. Furthermore, they can exacerbate existing chronic conditions or make existing ones worse.
Staying hydrated is of the utmost importance; water should always be your go-to drink instead of other options such as sports drinks or alcoholic beverages, which may dehydrate. Drink water before feeling thirsty to maximize hydration levels during physical exertion at hot temperatures.
Check on elderly neighbours and those with preexisting health conditions, and help them keep cool. Make sure they have plenty of fresh food and water available, with medicines stored in a cool location since extra doses may need to be taken on days with extreme heat. Finally, if going out during a heatwave yourself, plan non-essential activities during cooler times of the day while seeking shade as much as possible.
Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses provide more than just fashion accessories; they’re an invaluable health benefit as well. To shield our eyes from UV rays that cause cataracts and macular degeneration, sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB blocking properties should be worn during prolonged outdoor activity. 100% UVA/UVB blockage is especially crucial.
UV rays can lead to painful eye conditions known as photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea and conjunctiva), with symptoms including red eyes, tearing and an unpleasant gritty sensation in your eyes. Direct sunlight exposure worsens this condition further, and it can be further compounded if an existing condition such as conjunctivitis exists.
As additional protection, wear a wide-brimmed hat or visor to add shade and reduce glare. Also, drink plenty of water to maintain optimal hydration levels, which helps your eyes remain moist and comfortable; use eye lubricating drops if necessary.
Stay Indoors
Heatwaves can be dangerous for all, particularly elderly individuals or those living with health conditions. Stay indoors as much as possible and close windows and blinds during the hottest part of the day (typically 11 a.m.–3 p.m.), keeping children and pets inside as much as possible, as dehydration can set in quickly.
If it is necessary to go out, take regular breaks in the shade and avoid prolonged direct sunlight exposure. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibres such as cotton. Use high-factor sun cream.
Check-in with vulnerable friends, neighbours and family members who might need additional assistance during this hot weather. Ensure they have access to food, water, and electricity supplies and that their homes are adequately ventilated. It is also important to monitor their usual patterns to spot any symptoms of heatstroke, such as not being able to eat, seizures or becoming unconscious.
See Your Optometrist
Since many areas of the country are experiencing extreme temperatures, experts have raised serious health risks that come with unprotected exposure to heat. Eye infections can range from mild itching and red eyes to conjunctivitis, styes and increased risks of cataracts.
Higher temperatures can contribute to dry eyes by speeding up tear film evaporation, leading to discomfort, itching and gritty sensations. Utilizing eye drops regularly or splashing your eyes with cold water is an effective way to maintain proper moisture levels in the eyelids and avoid rubbing, which could introduce germs that further irritate them.
Additionally, it’s crucial to use a humidifier in air-conditioned rooms and consume foods rich in essential nutrients such as fish, leafy greens, fruits, and nuts that contain anti-heatwave properties and can reduce its adverse impact on the eyes.