Summer brings longer days, brighter skies and more time spent outdoors in Welling and across south east London. While we all enjoy the warmth and sunshine, summer can be a challenging time for our eyes. At Hayshine Pharmacy, we believe good eye care should be easy and accessible, helping you stay comfortable and protected whatever your summer plans may be.

Why Summer Can Be Tough on Your Eyes

• Longer daylight hours and stronger sunlight can increase eye strain and risk of UV damage.
• Outdoor activities and swimming can expose eyes to irritants and infection.
• Air conditioning and pollen can worsen dry or itchy eyes.

With more hours spent outside, sunny weather can have a real impact on your eye health. UV rays are stronger, especially around midday. Pollen counts rise, which may cause irritation, and air conditioning can make eyes feel dry or sore after a busy day at work or play.

Simple Steps for Protecting Your Eyes in the Sun

• Choose sunglasses with full UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra shade when out and about.
• Stay in the shade during peak sun hours where possible.

Not all sunglasses offer the same level of protection. Look for a label stating 100% UVA and UVB protection. Wraparound styles are especially effective, and you can always ask our team at Hayshine for advice on what to choose. A hat with a brim, such as a sunhat or cap, can make a big difference when you’re walking through Bexleyheath, enjoying the park in Eltham or relaxing in your garden.

Swimming and Eye Health What You Need to Know

• Use watertight goggles when swimming to help protect against irritation and infection.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes after swimming, especially in pools or open water.
• If you notice redness or discomfort, your local pharmacy can offer advice on soothing eye drops and when to seek further help.

Swimming is a great way to cool down but pools, lakes and even the sea can carry irritants or bacteria. Goggles are a simple and effective way to reduce the risk of infection and keep your eyes comfortable. If you wear contact lenses, it’s best to remove them before swimming, but if you must keep them in, watertight goggles are a must. If you feel sore or notice redness after a swim, pop into Hayshine Pharmacy for tailored advice or see our Pharmacy First service for quick support.

Managing Dry, Itchy or Irritated Eyes

• Hydrate well and take breaks from screens to reduce dryness.
• Pharmacies stock a range of lubricating eye drops suitable for mild irritation.
• If symptoms persist, Hayshine Pharmacy can help you decide if you need to see an optician or GP.

Spending long periods in air conditioned spaces, looking at screens or being exposed to pollen can all contribute to dry or itchy eyes. Drinking plenty of water helps, as does taking regular breaks from digital devices. For mild irritation, lubricating eye drops available at Hayshine can bring quick relief. If your symptoms are ongoing or severe, our pharmacists can assess whether you need further care or a referral. We’re here to help you make the right choice for your eye health.

When to Get Help from Your Local Pharmacy

• Many minor summer eye problems can be managed quickly with pharmacy advice.
• The Pharmacy First service lets you speak to a clinical expert without needing a GP appointment.
• If you have sudden vision changes, pain or ongoing redness, Hayshine can advise on next steps and referral options.

Pharmacists are trained to help with many common eye issues, from mild irritation and allergies to minor infections. If you are unsure, our Pharmacy First service is available for quick advice. You do not need to see your GP for most minor eye concerns. Should you experience sudden pain, vision changes or intense redness, we can advise on when to seek further help, either with an optician or through NHS 111.

Eye Health and Summer Travel Don’t Forget Your Essentials

• If you’re travelling abroad, pack spare contact lenses, solution and suitable sunglasses.
• Hayshine’s travel clinic can advise on eye health risks in your destination and offer travel health essentials.
• Ask about travel vaccinations and other health checks before your trip.

Heading away for a holiday or business trip? It’s easy to forget about your eyes when packing. Always take enough contact lenses and solution for your trip, plus a backup pair if possible. Sunglasses with proper UV protection are especially important in sunnier climates. At our travel clinic, we can talk you through any eye health risks at your destination and help you prepare, including essential travel vaccinations and advice on general travel health. If you’re managing other conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, we also offer blood tests and health screening to help you travel with peace of mind.

How to Access Eye Care Support Locally

• Hayshine Pharmacy offers walk-in and online appointment booking for advice on eye health and minor conditions.
• Our team can help with over-the-counter treatments, minor injuries and onward referral if needed.
• Free NHS prescription delivery is available for those unable to collect medication themselves.

Whether you live in Welling, Sidcup, Dartford or Lewisham, Hayshine Pharmacy makes it easy to get the support you need. You can walk in for advice or use our online appointment booking system to arrange a time that suits you. For those unable to visit in person, our free NHS prescription delivery service ensures you never miss out on essential medication or treatments. We pride ourselves on being open and accessible to our local community, offering support for eye health and a wide range of other services all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the best sunglasses for protecting my eyes?
  Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Wraparound styles give extra coverage. You can ask at Hayshine Pharmacy for advice on suitable options.
• Can I get treatment for red or itchy eyes at a pharmacy?
  Yes, many common eye irritations can be managed at your local pharmacy. Our Pharmacy First service lets you get advice and treatment quickly, without needing to see your GP.
• Is it safe to swim with contact lenses?
  Swimming with contact lenses can increase the risk of infection. If you must wear them, use watertight goggles and remove lenses as soon as possible afterwards. Ask our team about safer options.
• How do I book an appointment for eye care advice at Hayshine?
  You can walk in for advice or use our online booking system to arrange a convenient time with one of our clinical staff.
• What should I do if my eye symptoms get worse?
  If you develop sudden pain, loss of vision or severe redness, seek urgent advice. Hayshine Pharmacy can help you decide if you need referral to an optician or NHS 111.

Book an Appointment with Hayshine Pharmacy

Book an appointment online today: https://hayshine.co.uk/online-appointment-booking/

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical advice.