Unprotected sun exposure and bathing in contaminated water affect eye health

With the arrival of the Amazon summer and the increase in outdoor activities at beaches, streams, and other bathing spots, the population should double their care for eye health. The Metropolitan Polyclinic in Belém warns of the risks during this period, such as prolonged sun exposure and contact with contaminated water, which can cause irritations, infections, and other damage to vision.

Ophthalmologist Pedro Lins, who works at the Polyclinic, a unit managed by the Institute of Social and Environmental Health of the Amazon (ISSAA), in partnership with the State Department of Public Health (Sespa), emphasizes the importance of eye prevention. “During this period, cases of conjunctivitis, burns on the ocular surface caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays, and infections related to the improper use of contact lenses in rivers, beaches, and pools significantly increase. These are problems that can be avoided with simple care,” he informs.

Threats - According to the doctor, those who wear contact lenses should be extra cautious when visiting bathing spots. “Contact with microorganisms present in the water, dust, or even sweat can cause severe infections in the cornea, threatening vision. When the use of lenses is indispensable, it is recommended to wear swimming goggles for additional protection,” warns Pedro Lins.

Another essential care is to avoid direct sun exposure. The doctor highlights photokeratitis, inflammation caused by ultraviolet radiation, which affects the surface of the eye. “The person feels intense pain, a sandy sensation in the eyes, tearing, and vision becomes blurred. These symptoms usually worsen a few hours after sun exposure,” he emphasizes.

The reflection of sunlight on the water can also exacerbate the problem. “UVB rays affect the superficial part of the eye, and UVA rays penetrate more deeply, reaching the retina. Chronic exposure can accelerate the onset of cataracts and macular degeneration,” says the specialist.

Guidelines - Among the recommended care by the ophthalmologist are the use of glasses with UVA and UVB protection, preferably with polarized lenses and purchased from reliable places. “It is also important to wear hats or caps with wide brims that provide shade on the face, avoid rubbing the eyes with dirty hands, and use lubricating eye drops in case of contact with dust,” he advises.

The doctor also warns about the main signs of vision problems, such as eye redness, pain, excessive discharge, swelling of the eyelids, and persistent blurred vision. These symptoms may indicate infections or serious eye injuries. “Upon noticing any of these signs, it is essential to seek ophthalmological care as soon as possible. Early diagnosis is crucial to ensure effective treatment and preserve your eye health,” concludes Pedro Lins.

More guidelines to maintain eye health during the summer:

- Wash your face and eyes with clean water after bathing in rivers or pools – helps remove residues of chlorine, salt, or microorganisms that may have come into contact with the eye area;

- Be careful with sprays of repellents, bronzers, and sunscreens – direct contact of these products with the eyes can cause burning, redness, and inflammation;

- Avoid using eye makeup when going to bathing spots – products like mascara and eyeliner can dissolve in contact with water and cause irritations or facilitate infections, especially if they are not waterproof;

- Bring a clean face towel to dry the eye area – prevents cross-contamination with other parts of the body or with shared towels, and

- Take frequent visual breaks when using a cell phone or tablet in open environments – the combination of sun and screen glare can cause eye fatigue and dryness.