With summer upon us, our days longer, and our activities focused on
the outdoors, it's important to protect our eyes from the sun's
damaging rays. Just as sunblock helps protect our skin's delicate layers
from immediate and long-term sun damage, wearing a sturdy pair of
sunglasses with full UV protection goes a long way in helping to prevent
sun-related vision damage. Some eye diseases and conditions long known
to be caused by prolonged sun exposure include cataracts (metabolic
change in the lens of the eye), macular disease (solar maculopathy), and
occasionally corneal damage. Because the skin protecting our eyes is so
thin, it isn't uncommon for certain people to acquire skin cancer of
the eyelids, namely basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and
melanoma. Although all ethnic groups are at risk, those most predisposed to vision and eye related sun damage
are fair skinned people of European descent. In addition to protecting
the eyes from harmful UV radiation, sunglasses are helpful in
protecting the eyes from wind, dust, pollen, and dry air. Enhanced
contrast and reduced eyestrain are benefits as well.
When
choosing a pair of sunglasses, be sure that they provide 99% UV
protection, are polarized for improved glare reduction and better
acuity, and have a slight wrap around design to further keep the sun's
rays away from the eyes.
Yours in Eye Health,
Kevin L. Crosier, OD
ClearVision Eye Care
Go to: http://www.clearvision.info
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