As summer gets closer, it’s a great time to learn why UV protection is so important. Most people think about using sunscreen to protect their skin from the sun, but did you know your eyes need protection too? UV, or ultraviolet light, radiates from the sun and can damage your eyes over time – even when it’s hidden behind the clouds!
Understanding UV Rays:
The prolonged exposure to UV rays increases the risk of several eye conditions, including:
- Cataracts: clouding of the eye’s lens, leading to decreased vision.
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): damage to the retina, resulting in central vision loss.
- Photokeratitis: a painful condition/sunburn of the eye.
- Pterygium: triangular growth on the eye’s surface that can block vision.
- Eyelid skin cancer.
These conditions can develop over time without noticeable symptoms but any changes in your normal day-to-day routine should be discussed with your local optometrist. A thorough eye exam will reveal the cause and how it can be treated.
How to Protect Your Eyes from UV Exposure:
Some tips to safeguard your eyes:
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses.
- Wear hats as they can shield your eyes from direct sunlight.
- Limit sun exposure.
- As a contact lens wearer, consider those with UV protection.
Protecting Children’s Eyes:
A child’s eye is particularly vulnerable to UV damage since it has larger pupils and clearer lenses, which allows more UV rays to reach the retina. Protect your child from the sun by maintaining regular eye examinations and wearing sunglasses and hats when outdoors.
DId you know children between the ages of 1 and 19 are covered by OHIP for annual eye exams? There is a children’s program available for junior and senior kindergarten students that provides them one free pair of glasses and supports early detection and prevention of vision problems.
Bottom Line:
Protecting your eyes from UV radiation is just as important as your skin. Maintaining healthy vision can be achieved by taking precautions and having regular eye exams. Book your eye exam at inFocus Vision Care here.
For more information, concerns or inquiries or to book your next eye exam, get in touch with inFocus Vision Care. It all begins with you taking care of your eyes!
