By Dr. David S. Karan
Summertime is upon us and we are all looking forward to a well-deserved respite and fun times. Too often we are so intent on this that common sense and basic care of our body falls by the wayside.
As an ophthalmologist, I frequently see situations where caution was not used and playtime was permanently spoiled. Whether playing tennis, golf, baseball or football, all of these sports should be enjoyed with protective eye wear. I have witnessed devastating injuries in patients who were trying to enjoy these sports without adequate protection. All sport shops carry such eye wear.
Swimmers and water skiers should always have protective goggles to prevent ocular inflammation and trauma.
With the firecracker season upon us, common sense is a useful but (unfortunately at times) rare commodity. Eye protective wear can possibly save a lifetime of grief and disability.
We now know that the ultraviolet and infrared rays that are strongest in summertime can be harmful to the delicate internal structures of our eyes. With the appropriate sun protection we can enjoy the summertime and be worry free.
Not using the precious gift of common sense will at times allow us more exposure at the beach to sunburn. With regards to the very thin skin of our eyelids, this results in puffiness, swelling and burning of the lids — sometimes to the extent where vision is impaired. Thinking ahead and protecting our gift of sight will keep those beach days happy and filled with pleasant memories.
Let’s learn to treasure our beautiful gift of sight, use common sense and enjoy our fun times.
David S. Karan is a licensed opthamologist with offices at 144-24 37th Ave. He can be reached at 718-539-1199.
