Outdoor Safety for Your Eyes: Protecting Vision During Maine’s Seasons

Tabatha Erickson • March 6, 2026

Maine’s four distinct seasons create unique challenges for eye health. From intense summer sun to winter snow glare and cold winds, outdoor conditions can affect vision year-round.

Sunglasses with tortoise frames on a wet sandy surface, with ocean in the background.

Summer Eye Safety
Prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
 
Fall Eye Safety
Wind and debris can irritate eyes. Use protective eyewear during yard work and outdoor activities.
 
Winter Eye Safety
Snow reflects UV rays, increasing exposure. Cold air and indoor heat can worsen dry eye symptoms.
 
Spring Eye Safety
Seasonal allergies may cause itchy, watery eyes. Avoid rubbing and use recommended eye drops.
 
When to Schedule an Eye Exam
Persistent irritation or blurry vision may signal the need for professional eye care.
 

Schedule Eye Care Near You

Biddeford, ME – Schedule your comprehensive eye exam today.

Sanford, ME – Book preventative eye care for every season.

Scarborough, ME – Protect your vision year-round with routine exams.

Close-up of a blue eye with long eyelashes and eyebrow.

Are Eye Floaters Normal? When to Worry About Spots in Your Vision

By Tabatha Erickson • October 16, 2026
Are eye floaters normal? Learn what causes floating spots in your vision, which warning signs need immediate attention, and when to seek professional eye care.
Woman sitting on the floor with a laptop, pressing her temples in a bright room.

Can Your Eyes Cause Headaches? What Your Vision May Be Telling You

By Tabatha Erickson • September 8, 2026
Can your eyes cause headaches? Learn how eye strain, vision changes, and screen time may contribute to headaches and when to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
Person with contact lenses while looking into a bathroom mirror

Can You Shower With Contact Lenses? What Contact Lens Wearers Should Know

By Tabatha Erickson • August 27, 2026
Can you shower or swim while wearing contact lenses? Learn why water and contacts do not mix and what to do if your lenses get wet from a shower, pool, or tub.
Patient undergoing an eye exam with an optometrist using an autorefractor in a bright clinic

What to Expect at Your First Eye Exam at Optometric Associates of Southern Maine

By Tabatha Erickson • July 15, 2026
Not sure what happens during a comprehensive eye exam? Here's a friendly, step-by-step look at what to expect when you visit Optometric Associates.

Dry Eye vs. Allergies: How to Tell the Difference (and What to Do About It)

By Tabatha Erickson • June 15, 2026
Struggling with red, irritated eyes this season? Learn how to tell the difference between dry eye disease and ocular allergies.

How Nutrition Affects Your Eye Health: What Maine Residents Should Be Eating

By Tabatha Erickson • May 14, 2026
The Eye-Diet Connection How Nutrition Affects Your Eye Health: What Maine Residents Should Be Eating
A healthcare professional in a white coat uses an eye examination device in a clinic.

Breaking Down Advanced Vision Testing Technologies: What They Are and Why They Matter

By Tabatha Erickson • April 14, 2026
Learn how advanced vision testing technologies like OCT scans and digital retinal imaging improve early detection and protect the long-term eye health of patients.
Diagram comparing a normal eye to an eye with retinopathy; one shows healthy blood vessels, the other shows leakage.

The Link Between Eye Health and Systemic Conditions: What Maine Residents Should Know

By Tabatha Erickson • February 11, 2026
Learn how eye exams can detect systemic health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and why regular eye care is important for Maine residents.
Girl with red hair and glasses reading a book, sitting on a table in front of a window.

Why Eye Care is Crucial for Children’s Development in Maine

By Tabatha Erickson • January 13, 2026
Understand the importance of regular eye exams and eye care for children in Maine. Learn how eye exams support healthy vision and overall development in children.
Optometrist holds up a phoropter, smiling, in an exam room.

How Technology is Improving Vision Care in Maine

By Tabatha Erickson • December 5, 2025
Explore how cutting-edge technology is enhancing eye care in Maine, from telehealth services to advanced diagnostic tools, and improving care for patients.