Summer is here and most of us are excited to spend more time outdoors. However, with increased sun exposure comes the risk of eye damage from harmful UV rays. While most of us remember to apply sunscreen, we often forget to protect our eyes. In this blog, we’ll discuss the dangers of sun damage to the eyes and how you can protect your eyes.
The dangers of sun exposure on eye health
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can be harmful to our eyes and cause several eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium. The longer our eyes are exposed to UV rays, the greater the risk of developing these conditions. Additionally, UV rays can cause sunburn on the delicate skin around our eyes, which can lead to skin cancer. It’s essential to wear sunglasses that block out 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation when spending time outdoors to protect your eyes from sun damage.
Tips on protecting your eyes from sun damage
The good news is that there are several ways to protect your eyes from sun damage.
Wear sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses is the best way to protect your eyes from UV rays. Look for sunglasses that block 99% to 100% UVA and UVB radiation. Wrap-around sunglasses that cover the sides of your eyes are even better, as they provide additional protection. Additionally, choose sunglasses that have polarized lenses, as they reduce glare and provide better visual clarity.
Wear a hat
Wearing a hat is another great way to shield your eyes from direct sunlight. We recommend choosing a wide-brimmed hat with a brim of at least three inches for optimal protection. That way, your hat will also protect your scalp, neck, and face from the sun’s harmful rays.
Avoid peak sunlight hours
Try to avoid going outside between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun’s UV rays are strongest. If you are going out during this time, wear a hat and sunglasses and seek shade.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help keep your eyes hydrated and prevent dryness. Dry eyes are more susceptible to UV damage, so it is essential to keep them moisturized.
Schedule regular eye exams
Regular eye exams are crucial in monitoring the health of your eyes. If you have cataracts or macular degeneration, sun damage can exacerbate these conditions. During an eye exam, your eye doctor can detect and treat these conditions and prevent vision loss. They can also prescribe special lenses or coatings that offer added UV protection if necessary.
We hope these tips have been helpful and that you can enjoy the sun safely and comfortably. If you have any concerns or want to make sure your eyes are ready for summer fun, contact us today to schedule an eye exam in Lawrenceville!
