Sun Is Out, Sunglasses Are On
Published:
Summer is around the corner, which usually means more sun exposure. As important as applying sunblock to protect your skin is using proper eye protection to shield your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
UV radiation can damage the eye's surface tissues, cornea, and lens.
According to the World Health Organization, exposure to UV radiation can, over time, increase the risk of developing conditions such as:
- Photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea).
- Photoconjunctivities (inflammation of the membrane lining the inside of the eyelids and eye sockets).
- Pterygium (growth of fleshy tissue on the eye).
- Cataracts.
- Macular degeneration.
- Cancer in and around the eye.
Effective UV Protection Strategies
UV light poses a significant threat to eye health, but with the right precautions, you can minimize these risks. Effective UV protection strategies are:
- UV Sunglasses: Sunglasses that block 100% of UV-A and UV-B rays are essential. Look for labels that indicate UV400 protection. Wraparound styles offer additional protection by blocking rays from the sides.
- UV-Blocking Contact Lenses: While these lenses provide some protection, they should be used in conjunction with sunglasses for comprehensive coverage. Contact Lenses can be labelled with two different levels of protection:
- Class 1 UV blocking: The highest level of protection. Contact lenses that are able to block 90% of UV-A rays and 99% of UV-B rays.
- Class 2 UV blocking: Contact lenses that block 70% of UV-A rays and 95% of UV-B rays.
We invite you to schedule an appointment with us to ensure your eyes are protected from UV damage. Our comprehensive eye exams will help identify any issues early and provide you with the best solutions for maintaining healthy vision. Protect your eyes today and enjoy a lifetime of clear vision.