Summer eye‑health warnings urge UV‑protective eyewear and precautions

Ophthalmologists in Mexico and Spain warned that higher temperatures and increased UV exposure this summer raise the risk of several eye conditions, including dry eye, allergic conjunctivitis, photokeratitis, cataracts, macular degeneration and even solar retinopathy during the August eclipse. They explained that heat accelerates tear evaporation, while reflected sunlight from water, sand or pavement intensifies ocular UV dose.

Health authorities in Castilla‑La Mancha and the Hospital Universitario de Guadalajara urged the public to wear certified UV‑filter sunglasses (CE‑marked), avoid cheap dark lenses, and use hats during peak sun hours. Additional recommendations include applying sunscreen around the eyes, using swimming goggles in pools, refraining from wearing contact lenses while swimming, and practicing strict eye‑hygiene to prevent bacterial or parasitic infections such as Pseudomonas or Acanthamoeba.

The Spanish group Miranza also highlighted the danger of looking directly at the sun, especially during the eclipse, which can cause irreversible retinal damage. Vulnerable groups—children, outdoor athletes, people with light eyes or pre‑existing eye conditions—should take extra precautions. These combined advisories aim to reduce a notable rise in emergency eye consultations reported in the summer months.