While it’s easy to view sunglasses as a simple fashion accessory, the truth is that they can be a crucial tool for keeping your eyes in good health. In particular, they can provide protection against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause various problems with excessive exposure. Below is a closer look at how UV rays can affect your eyes and the importance of choosing the right glasses with UV-blocking lenses.
UV Rays and Eye Health
UV rays have been linked to a number of vision problems. In particular, they can potentially speed up the development of cataracts, which is a condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Cataracts can result in blurry vision and needs surgical correction. Additionally, UV rays play a role in age-related macular degeneration, which is a leading cause of central vision loss in adults.
It should also be noted that overexposure to UV radiation can lead to photokeratitis. This can be thought of as sunburn of the eye, and it can result in significant pain, redness, and (in rare cases) temporary loss of vision.
One last thing to note is that UV radiation can lead to growths known as pinguecula and pterygium appearing on the eye. A pinguecula forms on the white part of your eye and can cause foreign body sensations. A pterygium starts in the corner of the eye and can extend onto the cornea; it can easily cause irritation if left alone, and it could potentially obscure your vision and need surgical correction.
Protecting Your Eyes with the Right Sunglasses
If you want to keep your eyes safe from the harmful effects of UV radiation, then choosing the right sunglasses is crucial. Before buying any sunglasses, you should make sure that they block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Try searching for sunglasses that come with one of the following types of lenses:
- 100% UV protection lenses made of Polycarbonate material.
- Polarized Lenses: These lenses not only offer good UV protection, but they can reduce glare when driving, fishing, or golfing.
- Photochromic Lenses: Photochromic lenses automatically get darker when exposed to sunlight, thus allowing you to switch comfortably between indoor and outdoor environments while still keeping your eyes safe from UV rays. These lenses do not turn dark in an indoor or covered space (like your car).
- Wraparound Lenses: Wraparound lenses are more protective in environments where you are concerned about UV exposure to the sides of your eyes and face, e.g., biking, fishing, being on the water, etc.
Being proactive is essential when it comes to protecting your eyes from UV rays. When spending time outside, be sure to bring a pair of quality sunglasses with you; it could ultimately make all the difference for your ocular health.
About the Author
Dr. Jordana Chettiparampil is a Therapeutic Optometrist who is skilled in diagnosing and managing a variety of eye diseases. She graduated from the University of Houston College of Optometry, and she holds membership with the Texas Optometric Association and other organizations. Her practice, Richmond Eye Experts, proudly provides eyeglasses with UV-blocking lenses. If you’re concerned about your eye health, you can schedule a visit with Dr. Chettiparampil by visiting her website or calling (832) 685-2020.