Importance of UV Protection for the Eyes

Importance of UV Protection for the Eyes

The National Eye Institute recognizes that ultraviolet (UV) rays can harm your eyes. The two most destructive types of radiation are UVA and UVB that destroy the internal structures of your eyes. To prevent detrimental and debilitating eye damage, you should establish the habit of keeping your eyes safe from intense sunlight when you’re outside. If you haven’t started this habit yet, here’s what you need to know about the importance of UV protection for the eyes.

 

Prevents Long-Term Eye Damage

Eye experts advise you to protect your eyes from UV rays to prevent eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Clinical studies reveal that cataract is the main cause of blindness all over the world. As this condition develops, your lenses become cloudy. Eventually, the cloudy lenses impair your vision. Researchers also link UV exposure to the occurrence of macular degeneration. This condition is common among people who are at least 50 years old. Like cataracts, macular degeneration can result in vision loss. It is best to wear UV protective sunglasses to keep your eyes safe from severe, long-term damage.

 

Lowers Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Research shows that about 10 percent of skin cancers develop on your eyelids. The skin that covers your eyes is thinner than the rest of your facial skin. It also receives the brunt of the hot sun when you step outside. This makes it mandatory for you to protect your eyes from UV rays. Your eye doctor can provide you with the right kind of sunglasses that will match your style so that you can feel and look good as you wear them.

 

Prevents Agonizing Eye Sunburns

Many patients rush to their eye doctors because of “eye sunburn” or photokeratitis. This short-term eye damage causes excessive tearing, a gritty sensation in your eye, and sensitivity to light. You can avoid this painful eye condition by simply wearing proper protection against UV radiation.

 

Keeps You Looking Young

Beauty-conscious people wear sunglasses for the sake of maintaining their youth. It is one of the effective ways to delay the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles around your eyes. To enhance your eye protection, you can also wear wide-brimmed hats and wraparound sunglasses.

 

Protects Your Eyes From Bright Reflections of Sunlight

When you spend many hours on the water, in the snow, or in the urban jungle, your eyes tend to absorb bright sunlight that bounces off mirrors, pavements, water, and snow. Make sure that you always wear sunglasses that can protect you from UV rays. You can also ask your eye doctor about UV protective contact lenses because they can support your UV sunglasses.


 

Wearing your UV protective eyewear is important for your general health and well-being. Here at Claremore Eye Associates, we can help you determine which of our UV protective sunglasses will fit your style and preference. Please visit us at our clinic in Claremore, Oklahoma, for a one-on-one consultation. You can also call us at 918-233-3319 if you want to schedule an appointment or ask more questions about the importance of UV protection for your eyes.