Dr. Tina Eckhardt ~
UV damage to the eyes can be either immediate, cumulative, or a combination of both. Corneal sunburn, for example, happens immediately where issues including eye cancers and growths on and around the eye are often cumulative. Most cumulative eye malformations contribute to cataracts and likely to the progression of macular degeneration.
It’s not just sunny summer days you need to worry about either. Eyes and skin can accumulate harmful UV radiation on overcast days and cold, winter days. And don’t forget the kids! According to the Vision Council, children receive three times the annual sun exposure of adults. So what can you do to protect your eyes?
Help keep your eyes protected today so they’ll be healthy in the future. These tips will help you select the best UV protection for your eyes:
- Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV-A and UV-B rays or 100% protection against UV 400. UV protection has nothing to do with the darkness or color of the lenses. Wear a brimmed hat.
- Use wrap-around sunglasses – they do the best job protecting the eyes and the skin around the eyes. Sunscreen also helps.
- Some contact lenses may offer UV protection but do not protect the entire eye and the skin around it. Always wear sunglasses with your contacts.
- Sunglasses, especially for children, should be made of unbreakable polycarbonate for active lifestyles. Dollar store/toy sunglasses may not offer adequate protection.
To promote the importance of UV protection to maintain healthy eyes, The Vision Council has made June 27th National Sunglasses Day, and ESA is offering 30%* off sunglasses prescription or non-prescription June 21 – 25th at any of our ESA clinics. Click here to browse our online frame gallery.
*Talk to an optician for details. Good on prescription or non-prescription sunglasses. This offer cannot be combined with any vision insurance.
The material contained in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.
