Life without glasses is great
Summer months invite us to travel in search of sunshine, the sea, and the mountains. Yet few people realize the risks this season poses to our eyes. On holiday, our eyes are often exposed to a range of harmful influences—from intense UV radiation to chlorinated water, air conditioning, or dust.
“Vision is one of the most sensitive sensory organs, and during the summer, it faces many risks that people often underestimate. Without sufficient protection, irritation, inflammation, or even serious complications may occur—especially in individuals with chronic eye diseases or after eye surgery. Fortunately, a few simple preventive steps can reliably protect your eyes,” says Radan Zugar, MD, Chief Doctor of Eye Centre Prague.
UV radiation can damage the conjunctiva, cornea, and retina, and also contributes to the earlier development of cataracts. That’s why it’s essential to choose high-quality sunglasses with a UV 400 filter, which protects not only against visible but also ultraviolet light. Glasses that provide broader coverage or side shields are ideal, as they also block sunlight coming from the sides and reflected off surfaces.
Remember that UV radiation penetrates even through clouds and reflects off water, sand, or concrete—so unprotected eyes can be harmed even in the shade.
Chlorinated water dries out the mucous membranes and may trigger irritation or conjunctivitis. Salty sea water can cause burning or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It’s advisable to rinse your eyes with clean water after swimming. Swimming or diving goggles are ideal. If irritation still occurs, artificial tears or antiseptic eye drops—readily available at pharmacies—can help.
In planes, cars, or air-conditioned hotel rooms, air humidity is often very low. This can lead to dryness on the surface of the eye, which should not be ignored long term. It may lead to the development of dry eye syndrome—manifesting as burning, stinging, or a gritty sensation. Regular use of preservative-free moisturizing drops can help.
Don’t forget to drink enough fluids—dehydration reduces tear film production.
While travelling, especially in nature or dusty city areas, your eyes can come into contact with allergens or irritating particles. If you suffer from allergies, wear sunglasses as a physical barrier and use antihistamine eye drops if needed.
We also recommend glasses for cyclists and drivers—to protect against wind, insects, and debris.
During holidays, contact lenses can be more burdensome for the eyes. The combination of heat, sweat, dust, and wind increases the risk of irritation and infection. If you wear lenses, maintain strict hygiene. Consider switching to daily disposable lenses, which are more suitable for travel.
Never swim with contact lenses in—whether in the sea, pool, or natural lakes. Water can contain bacteria and parasites that thrive under lenses and may cause serious corneal infections.
It’s a good idea not to leave eye health to chance while travelling. Include the following in your travel first-aid kit:
If you use prescribed eye medication (e.g., for glaucoma, post-surgery, or chronic inflammation), make sure to take it regularly even on holiday and bring enough for your entire stay.
If you experience redness, pain, swelling, vision disturbances, or a purulent discharge, use antiseptic eye drops from your first-aid kit as first aid (e.g., Ophtalmo-Septonex). If your condition doesn’t improve within 24 hours or worsens, consult an eye doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms may signal a serious infectious disease that cannot be resolved with over-the-counter drops.
“Summer holidays should be a time for rest and new experiences—not for health issues. If we give our eyes the same attention as we do our skin or heart, we can provide them with the protection they need even in challenging conditions and avoid problems that could unnecessarily limit us,” concludes Dr. Zugar.
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