You probably know that UV stands for ultraviolet light and that it comes from the sun. UV can cause damage to your eyes just like it can to your skin.
But, do you know how UV can damage your eyes? Do you know how to best prevent that damage from occurring?
UV light can damage the eye at three different levels: the outer layers of the eye, the lens of the eye, and the retina (in the back of the eye). Let’s talk about each of those layers a little bit.
You can sunburn the outer layer of the eye just like you can get a sunburn your skin. Have you heard of “snow blindness?” Snow blindness is a sunburn of the outer layer of the eye and it occurs when the eye is exposed to too much UV light reflecting off snow. UV burns to the eye are not always from being around snow or water, however, reflections off snow or water increase UV exposure and make sun protection even more important.
The lens of the eye can also be damaged by UV light exposure. When too much UV exposure occurs, it can cause premature cataract formation. It is estimated that 20% of cataract formation is related to UV exposure. While cataracts are very common as we get older, and are very treatable, it is best to avoid accelerating cataract formation.
Lastly, the retina. Macular degeneration can be precipitated or accelerated by UV light exposure. Macular degeneration is a devastating vision condition that robs people of their ability to see detail. The risk for macular degeneration damage is increased by cumulative exposure to UV light, therefore exposure to excess UV as a child may contribute to macular degeneration-related vision loss years later.
A study showed that only 31% of Americans protect their eyes with sunglasses while outdoors. This is a problem.
Here are some things you should know about sun wear:
How will you know if your sunglasses are giving you the protection you need? How do you know what material they are made from?
This much we can tell you: if you purchase your sunglasses at a gas station, convenience store, off-the-rack at the grocery store, or if you spent less than $60 for them, they probably are not giving you the protection you need.
We recommend sun protection for everyone (even babies and children). Off-the-shelf sunglasses are not giving you or your child adequate protection. Come into Jensen Eye Care and ask us to help you find a quality pair of sunglasses that you'll like. It is true that a good pair of sunglasses will be more expensive than what you pay at the convenience store, but your preventative measures for good eye health is worth it. Invest in a good pair of sunglasses and wear them.