by Sam Savva, Practice Manager and Frame Stylist at Adrenaline Optometry
Summer on the NSW Central Coast is a truly special time. The natural environment bursts into life, with longer, warmer days encouraging everyone to spend more time outdoors. Whether it’s strolling along the beach, tending to the garden, or simply sitting back with a coffee in the sunshine, the allure of being outside is hard to resist.
However, for many people, especially as we age, summer can also bring about some difficulties with eye health. These issues may become more noticeable during this season, making it important to stay mindful and take steps to protect your eyes while enjoying everything the Central Coast has to offer.
If your eyes have been feeling itchy, watery, or a bit irritated lately, you’re certainly not alone.
Spring eye allergies are more common than you think
Even though we’re now in summer, many people are still experiencing eye allergy symptoms that began in spring. Pollen from trees, grasses and flowering plants can linger in the air, continuing to trigger reactions in the eyes. When pollen comes into contact with the eyes, the body may overreact by releasing histamine, leading to inflammation—a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis, often referred to as “hay fever of the eyes”.
Common symptoms include:
- Itchy or burning eyes.
- Redness.
- Excessive tearing.
- Puffy eyelids.
- A gritty or sandy sensation.
These symptoms can make simple pleasures like reading, driving, or gardening uncomfortable, and they can linger well into early summer.
A few simple tips can make a big difference:
- Keep windows closed on high pollen days.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to shield your eyes.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes (tempting, but it makes things worse).
- Use lubricating eye drops to help flush allergens away.
- Apply a cool compress to calm irritation.
If you wear contact lenses, pollen can stick to them. Daily disposable lenses are often more comfortable during allergy season.
If symptoms persist or start interfering with daily life, it’s worth seeing an optometrist to make sure allergies are the real cause, and to discuss targeted treatments if needed.
Think “Slip, Slop, Slap” for your eyes
As spring rolls into summer, the Central Coast sun becomes stronger, and while it feels wonderful, UV exposure can be tough on the eyes. Just like your skin, your eyes need protection.
Slip on good–quality sunglasses
Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles are especially helpful near the beach or water, where glare is stronger.
Slop on sunscreen (and don’t forget your eyelids)
Use sunscreen around the eyes (being careful not to get it in the eyes). Sun damage to the delicate skin around the eyes can contribute to long–term problems.
Slap on a hat
A wide–brimmed hat adds another layer of protection and reduces glare, perfect for coastal walks, gardening, or outdoor sports.
Extra summer tips:
- Stay well hydrated to reduce dry eye symptoms.
- Be cautious in windy or sandy environments.
- Rinse eyes with lubricating drops after long days outdoors.
Over 55’s eye health
Maintaining an active lifestyle is dependent on optimal visual acuity. Activities such as walking, gardening, or golfing benefit from clear vision, which supports both balance and self–assurance. Ocular health is intricately connected to general wellbeing, as systemic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and elevated cholesterol frequently impact the eyes, often without presenting noticeable symptoms. Therefore, routine ophthalmic assessments after the age of 55 are essential, even when no decline in vision is apparent.
Digital devices including phones and tablets facilitate connectivity for older adults; however, extended screen exposure may lead to ocular fatigue. Implementing simple modifications such as increasing text size, adjusting brightness levels appropriately, and maintaining a comfortable viewing distance can significantly reduce visual strain.
Vision is also critical for balance and mobility. Minor alterations in eyesight can impair depth perception and heighten the risk of falls, underscoring the importance of accurate prescriptions and adequate home lighting.
Comprehensive eye examinations post–55 serve purposes beyond corrective eyewear; they contribute to sustained ocular health, continued independence, and an enhanced quality of life for residents of the Central Coast.
Adrenaline Optometry in Terrigal is committed to providing trusted eye care and personalised service to the Central Coast community. The practice is led by Dr Baz Ghafourian, an Optometrist who graduated from the University of New South Wales with First Class Honours for his clinical research in dry eye. Dr Ghafourian brings over a decade of experience, having practised in Sydney, Parramatta, and the Central Coast since co–founding Adrenaline Optometry alongside business partner Sam Savva, the author of this article.
Dr Ghafourian’s dedication to the profession is further demonstrated through his involvement with the executive committee of Young Optometrists NSW/ACT, where he has advocated for the profession and contributed to elevating the standard of eye care across New South Wales. His passion for community service is evident in his regular participation in school and nursing home vision screenings, charity eye care programs with Onsight, and vision testing for asylum seekers.
Adrenaline Optometry | 02 4339 0900 | adrenalineoptometry.com.au