How to Protect Your Eyes From UV Rays

How to Protect Your Eyes From UV Rays

How to Protect Your Eyes From UV Rays

Long-term unprotected exposure to UV rays can result in chronic eye conditions. The sun’s UVA and UVB can increase the risk of developing macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye conditions. 


You can learn how to protect your eyes from UV rays. The best way to keep your eyes healthy is by protecting them from the harmful rays. Getting regular comprehensive eye exams at Inclima Eye Care to look for early signs of sun damage is crucial. 


 

Wearing Protective Sunglasses



Good quality sunglasses are the best defense against harmful UV rays. Choosing a pair that blocks 100 percent UVA and UVB radiation is vital. The best sunglasses screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light. You can also get blue-light blocking sunglasses that make it easier to see distant objects. 


Polarized lenses can help reduce glare reflected off water, snow, and other surfaces. If you participate in outdoor sports, polycarbonate lenses offer durability. You can invest in more than one pair of sunglasses for different activities. 


 

Never Stare Directly at the Sun



It would help if you never stared at the sun during an eclipse or at any other time. Staring directly at the sun can cause severe damage to the front part of the eye and the retina. A damaged retina can affect the macula, resulting in macular degeneration. 


It is an irreversible condition where you lose central vision. The disease progression can be controlled or slowed down using prescription medications and a proper diet. 


 

Wearing Transition Glasses 



If you wear prescription glasses or have light-sensitive eyes, transition lenses can help protect your eyes. These are lenses that go from clear to dark when you go outside or when they detect UV light. 


Unfortunately, the lenses do not become as dark as regular sunglasses. They may also take several minutes to become apparent when you go back inside. You can talk to your optician about the best UV protective transition lenses. 


 

Wear Sunglasses All Year Round



Most people only wear sunglasses in summer or when the sun is hot. To protect the eyes, you should wear sunglasses all year round, even during winter. Those who participate in winter sports are particularly vulnerable to harmful UV rays that reflect off the snow. Wear protective sunglasses if you are out clearing snow, working, or playing in the snow. 


 

UV Protection for Everyone 



Toddlers and young children are just as vulnerable to UV damage as teens and adults. It is vital to ensure that you get sunglasses for the entire family. Avoid using cheap sunglasses that do not offer UV protection. Poor-quality sunglasses act as a window that causes the pupils to enlarge, and they do more harm than good. Read the labels to ensure that the sunglasses you purchase for your family filter UV rays. 


 

Wearing a Wide-brimmed Hat



Wearing a wide-brimmed hat when the sun is hot will offer protection against UV rays. It will help increase protection by blocking the rays and providing a shade for the eyes.


Sunglasses help protect vision in the short term and long term. They protect the skin around the eyes and eyelids. This is important because sensitive skin has a high risk of developing cancers. 



For more on how to protect your eyes from UV rays, visit Inclima Eye Care at our office in West Haven, Connecticut. Call (203) 694-0418 today to schedule an appointment.

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