Reminding Patients of the Importance of Summer Eye Protection

5 Tips for Talking to Patients About Protecting Their Eyes this Summer

We all love spending more time outside during the summer. But that means more exposure to UV rays and not all patients know the proper way to protect their eyes. Here’s how you can talk to your patients about the importance of proper summer eye care and protection.

1 | Emphasize the Necessity of Sunglasses

Most patients generally have a pair of sunglasses on hand. But now is a good time to remind them why they are necessary. Remember that not all patients understand terms that are second nature to doctors. So explain why UV rays are harmful as well as the benefits of polarized sunglasses in layman terms. Stress that even on cloudy days, they should still wear sunglasses while outside since UV rays can go through clouds. For patients with children, remind them of the importance of protecting their child’s vision with sunglasses. Consider writing a blog on what you recommend when looking for sunglasses and share that on your socials and in a newsletter to patients. You can even promote specific brands that you offer!

2 | Ask About Medications

Patients may not realize that certain medications can increase photosensitivity, which can increase susceptibility to eye damage from UV rays. These photosensitizing drugs include:

  • Antibiotics containing tetracycline
  • Some birth control and estrogen pills
  • Certain anti-inflammatory relievers such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium