Living in The Villages, Florida, means enjoying the sunshine almost every day of the year. Whether you’re out for a round of golf, cruising in your golf cart, or enjoying a scenic walk near Lake Sumter Landing, the sunny weather is a huge part of what makes life here so special. But with all that sunshine comes a unique set of challenges for your eyes. At Urgent Eye Care, we want to help you enjoy the Florida lifestyle while keeping your eyes safe, healthy, and protected.
Understanding the Risks of Sun Exposure
The sun’s rays might feel good on your skin, but they can cause real damage to your eyes if you’re not careful. Florida’s intense UV exposure can lead to both short-term discomfort and long-term eye health issues.
Common eye problems caused by sun exposure include:
- Photokeratitis: Often called “sunburn of the eye,” this condition can cause pain, redness, blurred vision, and a gritty feeling.
- Pinguecula and Pterygium: These growths on the white of the eye are common in people who spend a lot of time outdoors without proper eye protection.
- Cataracts: Long-term UV exposure is a known contributor to the development of cataracts.
- Macular Degeneration: Prolonged sun exposure may also increase your risk for this age-related condition that affects central vision.
Dry Eyes in a Warm Climate
Many residents of The Villages experience dry, irritated eyes. Dry eye syndrome can be worsened by Florida’s heat, wind, and even air conditioning.
Symptoms of dry eye include:
- A scratchy, gritty sensation
- Redness or a burning feeling
- Blurred vision that improves with blinking
- Excessive tearing (as a response to dryness)
At Urgent Eye Care, we offer treatments that can bring relief, including artificial tear therapy, prescription medications, and in-office procedures. We understand how uncomfortable dry eyes can be and are committed to helping you find relief.
When to Seek Urgent Eye Care
You might think it’s just a little discomfort or some extra tearing, but certain symptoms should never be ignored. Here are some signs that mean you should come see us right away:
- Sudden vision changes
- Eye pain or pressure
- Light sensitivity
- Seeing flashes of light or new floaters
- Feeling like something is in your eye that won’t come out
- Redness that doesn’t go away