June 21st marked the official start of summer and we’d like to remind you about the importance of eye health and safety during the summer months. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you spend the summer enjoying the sun, vacationing, and spending time with family and friends:

Protect your eyes

June is National Cataract Awareness Month. As with any health issue, there are misconceptions about cataracts, including that it is only an issue for seniors. The truth is there are risk factors for developing cataracts at a young age, and the earlier you start taking good care of your eyes, the better your chances are of escaping cataracts.

Wear your sunglasses. Studies indicate that exposure to harmful UV rays is linked to the development of cataracts

UV-A and UV-B rays can be damaging to your eyes as well as your skin. Whenever you will be exposed to sunlight, be sure to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that offer both UV-A and UV-B protection. If you’re unsure about the level of protection, check the product label or consult your eye doctor. If you’re in the market for a new pair of prescription sunglasses, be sure to contact our optical department. Our opticians at Riverfront Optical are specially trained to help you choose a frame that is flattering to your face, as well as perfect for your lifestyle.

Schedule an annual eye exam

Summer time is the perfect time of year to schedule a back-to-school annual eye exam.  It’s just as important as having your annual physical with your primary care doctor. A lot of eye diseases do not show early symptoms, so timely detection is important to having the best outcome. Schedule an appointment today with one of our eye doctors at Ophthalmic Consultants of the Capital Region by calling 518-438-5273.

We look forward to helping you see clearly!