UC HEALTH LINE: Eye Damage Increases During Summer
CINCINNATIA pair of shades during the summer months isnt the only precaution needed to keep your peepers safe, says a UC expert.
Paul Brannan, MD, an ophthalmologist who specializes in eye reconstructive surgery, says between Memorial Day and Labor Day hes flooded with patients who have severely damaged their eyes.
Its like clockwork, and usually, alcohol is involved, he said.
National Eye Safety Awareness week is June 27 through July 5, and although protecting your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays is important, sun damage isnt the most common eye injury during the summer, Brannan said.
Firework and paintball injuries are at the top of the list, Brannan said. Often, people will go to inspect a firework that hasnt gone off, and it ends up detonating in their face. June is also National Fireworks Safety Month.
He added that many people choose not to wear goggles during paintball games, which can also lead to eye injuries.
Getting hit in the face with a paintball will often blow the eyeball right out of the socket, he said.
Brannan suggests always wearing some sort of eye protection when participating in any physical outdoor sport, such as paintball or riding four-wheelers.
He added that even if a lit firework seems to be a dud, never assume that it is.
Never pick up a firework that was once lit and put it to your face, he said. Thats a mistake many people make. Never assume that it wont reignite, and leave it alone until youre sure that its out.
Brannan added that even though the sun doesnt cause the most common eye injuries during the summer, UV protection should always be considered.
Its very easy to burn your corneas if youre out in the sun for a long period of time, he said. Its a superficial burn thats gone in about a week, but it can be very uncomfortable.
Its important for people to use their common sense and think twice before engaging in any activities that may injure their eyes. Their sight may depend on it.
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