Surf’s up – summer is here and the waves are calling!
However, before (wet)suiting up and paddling out past the break, optometrists are again reminding surfers to think about the safety of their eyes, an often-overlooked part of the body, which have the potential to wipeout the fun of hanging ten if not protected properly.
A study conducted by researchers at Sydney University's Save Sight Institute found that eye injuries sustained and conditions acquired while surfing range from mild dry eye and corneal abrasion to torn tear ducts, fractured sockets and lost eyes.
It will come as no surprise that surfboard fins in particular carry a risk of eye lacerations or punctures if a surfer encounters them during a fall. The pointed nose and tail can also pose dangers, potentially causing injuries to the eyes in the event of a collision.
While leg ropes do protect other surfers and swimmers by connecting surfers to their ride, minimising the danger of collisions caused by boards gone astray, they can add further risks to the rider; if a board is caught in a wave and rebounds towards the surfer, the “leggie” may propel it unpredictably, heightening the likelihood of impact with the face.
In addition to injury concerns, sea water reflects 25 to 30 percent of UV (ultraviolet) radiation, which intensifies exposure levels and, just like skin, if eyes are not shielded from the sun’s unrelenting rays there is an increased risk of UV damage, both temporary and permanent.
“Out in the ocean, surfers are exposed to various elements that can pose a threat to their eyes. In addition to the risk of eye injury from the board, the combination of strong sunlight and wind can lead to the likes of pterygium, photokeratitis and dry eye while the presence of sand, salt, bacteria and debris in the water can also contribute to eye irritation and infections,” said Dom Willson, optometrist and Professional Services Advisor at Optometry Australia.
Pterygium
A pterygium is a growth of tissue on the conjunctiva, which is the clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye. This growth often appears as a raised, red wedge-shaped bump on the inner corner of the eye. They are typically benign, non-cancerous growths but they can become unsightly and even affect vision if they grow large enough.
Symptoms of pterygium include:
- Visible eye growth
- Eye redness
- Eye irritation and discomfort
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Foreign body sensation
- Tearing
Regular eye examinations with an optometrist are essential for monitoring eye health and addressing conditions like pterygium in their early stages.
Photokeratitis
Basically a sunburn of the eye, photokeratitis is a painful condition caused by exposure of the eyes to UV rays. Although it does not lead to blindness in most cases, photokeratitis has the potential to hinder the ability to surf safely and may impair vision for several days or even longer.
Symptoms of photokeratitis include:
- Eye pain
- Redness
- Tearing
- Burning sensation
- Gritty feeling
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Eyelid swelling
- Watery eyes
- Foreign body sensation
It is essential to take a trip to the optometrist if you experience symptoms of photokeratitis, especially if they persist or worsen.
Dry eye
Dry eye, also known as dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough quality tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.
The ocean’s open, windy settings in addition to prolonged sun exposure can accelerate tear evaporation, leading to increased dryness and eye irritation.
Symptoms of dry eye include:
- Dryness
- Irritation and redness
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Foreign body sensation
- Tearing
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Discomfort for contact lens wearers
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
- Eye fatigue
Bruised eyes
More commonly known as a black eye or, in medical speak, periorbital hematoma, a bruised eye occurs when there is an accumulation of blood and other fluids in the soft tissues surrounding the eye socket, typically because of trauma or injury to the eye area (think rogue surfboard to the face).
While black eyes are often minor and can be managed at home, it is important to seek attention if there are signs of more significant injury, such as double vision, severe pain or persistent changes in vision as fractures around the eye socket or damage to the eyeball itself may have similar symptoms as a bruised eye.
Symptoms of bruised eyes include:
- Discolouration
- Swelling
- Pain and tenderness
- Vision changes
- Difficulty opening or shutting the injured eye
- Headache
- Bloodshot eyes
- Tearing
- Nasal swelling or bruising
How to protect your eyes while surfing
- Wear protective eyewear
Investing in high-quality sunglasses or goggles specifically designed for surfing can provide effective protection against harmful UV rays, wind and debris. Look for eyewear with polarised lenses to reduce glare and enhance visibility.
- Apply water-resistant sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin. Apply a water-resistant sunscreen with a high SPF to your face, including the area around your eyes (but be careful not to get it in your eyes!).
- Rinse eyes with fresh water
After each surf session, rinse your eyes thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt, sand and other irritants. Use a saline solution or artificial tears to soothe and moisturise your eyes.
- Regular visits to the optometrist
Regular visits to the optometrist are essential to monitor and maintain eye health, address specific challenges associated with the surfing environment and ensure optimal vision for both safety and enjoyment of the sport.
You can use our Find an Optometrist search tool to book an appointment with your nearest optometrist today.
