There are two types of UV rays that you must protect your eyes from: UV-A rays and UV-B rays. UV-A rays are known to cause damage to your central vision, negatively affecting the macula. UV-B rays are known to cause damage to your frontal vision, damaging your cornea and the lens. With such harmful rays beaming down on us every day, it’s important to take extra precaution when heading outdoors.
Are you concerned about your eye health? Schedule an appointment with one of our doctors.
More than a fashion statement, polarized sunglasses can greatly reduce the amount of UV rays that enter your eyes. But, it’s important to buy the right sunglasses … or else it truly is just a fashion statement. At Eyesight Associates, we have an optical shop that is full of designer eyewear frames for both prescription glasses and sunglasses.
When you wear polarized sunglasses, you are reducing the chances of developing eye diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and pterygium. These diseases can lead to vision loss, blindness, and other issues that greatly affect your daily life.
How to Protect Your Eyes Beyond UV Rays
UV rays are not the only damage-causing culprit you must consider when protecting your eyes. As you head to the ball park, mow the lawn, or simply relax outside this summer, remember these helpful tips to prevent eye damage:
- Wear eye equipment when you play sports, use any machinery, watch fireworks (July 4), etc.
- Wear a hat when you’re outside, in sunny or cloudy weather.
- Wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV-A and UV-B protection.
The best way to fight the onset of eye diseases is to take preventative steps, such as those listed above, and have regular eye exams with your Eyesight Associates’ doctor. During your eye exam, your doctor will check for any signs of eye disease and discuss treatment options for you, if applicable.