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With record temperatures already here, Specsavers in Letterkenny and Donegal Town highlight advice for safeguarding both vision and hearing from the intense sun and inviting waters.
As Ireland swelters under a significant heatwave this week, with temperatures soaring and the sun shining brighter than ever, Specsavers Donegal is issuing a reminder to the public: just as you protect your skin from harmful UV rays, it’s equally important to safeguard your eyes, and for those enjoying the water, to protect your hearing.
Safeguarding Your Eyes from the Sun’s Intensity
The extreme warmth we are experiencing can bring a heightened risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can affect your vision in a few ways, including blurred or double vision. Prolonged sun exposure without adequate protection can lead to sunburned eyes, medically known as photokeratitis or “snow blindness.” This occurs when the eyes are overexposed to harmful UV rays, either directly or from reflections off surfaces like water, sand, and even roads.
Symptoms of sunburned eyes include redness, watery eyes, intense itchiness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Specsavers Letterkenny and Donegal advises:
Invest in Quality Sunglasses: Look for sunglasses with a CE mark or the British Standard (BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013) to ensure adequate UV protection. Wear them every time you are outdoors this weekend.
Wear Protective Clothing: A wide-brimmed hat provides excellent shade.
Limit Sun Exposure: Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (typically 11 am to 3 pm). Never look directly at the sun.
Treating Sunburned Eyes: Seek shade, apply a cool compress, and avoid rubbing. If you wear contact lenses also take them out. Consult an optician if symptoms persist for over 48 hours.
Accidental Sun Cream in Eyes: Flush with saline or clean running water. Contact your optometrist if discomfort continues.
Protecting Your Hearing While Enjoying the Water
With the heatwave drawing more people to Ireland’s coasts for swimming, paddleboarding, and other water sports, Specsavers Letterkenny and Donegal also encourages enthusiasts to take proactive steps to protect their hearing health. Repeated exposure to cold water can lead to a condition called exostosis, commonly known as “surfer’s ear.” This occurs when bone grows in the ear canal, trapping wax and water, which can lead to hearing loss and infection. In Ireland, sea water temperatures are typically below 19 degrees Celsius, making water sports enthusiasts particularly susceptible, even during a heatwave.
Martina McNulty, Specsavers Audiology Chairperson, explains, “As people flock to our beautiful coastline, it’s vital to remember that by taking a few simple preventative measures, water sports enthusiasts can continue to enjoy their favourite activities whilst safeguarding their hearing health for years to come.”
Specsavers Letterkenny and Donegal recommend the following simple steps to protect your ears whilst enjoying water sports:
Wear Earplugs: This is the most effective way to minimise cold water exposure to the ear canal. Look for earplugs specifically designed for water sports.
Use Protective Gear: Consider wearing a specialised hooded wetsuit or headband to provide additional shielding for your ears from the elements.
Be Mindful of Exposure: Regular and prolonged exposure to cold water increases the risk. Be aware of the conditions and take precautions accordingly.
“By incorporating these simple habits into your water sports routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing surfer’s ear and ensure you can continue to enjoy the sounds of the sea for years to come,” adds Orla Walsh.
Staff at Specsavers Letterkenny and Donegal stores encourage anyone experiencing ear discomfort or noticing changes in their hearing to book a hearing check. Early detection and management are essential for maintaining optimal hearing health.
For more advice on sun protection, hearing health and to explore Specsavers’ range of sunglasses and hearing solutions, visit your local Donegal or Letterkenny Specsavers store: https://www.specsavers.ie/stores/donegaltown
Enjoy the heatwave safely: Essential eye & ear protection tips from Specsavers Donegal was last modified: August 15th, 2025 by Contributor
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