If you’re like most people, you probably don’t spend too much time worrying about the health of your eyes until and unless you begin to experience issues with vision or pain or discomfort in the eye area. However, problems with the eyes have the potential to seriously affect your quality of life. Taking preventive measures now is an excellent way to reduce the chances of experiencing eye issues later on in life. One of the easiest things you can do is wear sunglasses when spending time outdoors, particularly during the summer months. The following are several ways that sunglasses with UV protection help protect your eyes and preserve your eyesight.
Sunglasses Help Prevent CataractsResearch has shown that the sun’s UV rays are one of the main culprits when it comes to the development of cataracts. Fortunately, cataracts are usually treatable with surgery, but you can help stop their formation in the first place by protecting your eyes by wearing sunglasses.
Sunglasses Protect Your RetinaThe retina is the visual processor of your eyes. Over a period of time, exposure to UV rays can damage the retina to the extent that it causes a progressive condition known as macular degeneration. Macular degeneration has no known cure at this time, so be sure to reduce your chances of developing it by wearing sunglasses when you’re outdoors.
Sunglasses Protect Against Eyelid CancerEyelid cancer can also occur as a result of too much exposure to the UV rays. Because products containing sunscreen cause too much irritation when used on the thin and sensitive skin of the eyelids, sunglasses provide the protection that they need.
Sunglasses Protect Your Cornea From Getting BurnedYour corneas are the thin, clear membrane that covers the retinas of your eyes. Corneas particularly susceptible to damage from the sun’s UV rays, so make sure they’re protected by a good pair of sunglasses.
Keep in mind that wearing sunglasses all year round whenever spending time outdoors is an excellent practice when it comes to eye health — particularly if you live in an area or visit one that has snow on the ground. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you’d like more information on keeping your eyes as healthy as possible or to schedule a vision exam.