Protect Your Eyes Against UV Rays
How we can help you protect your eyes against the UV Rays of the Sun
Now that summer is coming, Alexander Bain and Murray Opticians can help you look fabulous while protecting yourself from UV Rays! We have some of the most gorgeous sunglasses that can be glazed with your prescription.
Our expert teams in Armagh, Dungannon, Lurgan and Portadown can help you put together solutions to protect your eyes, safeguarding your vision and future health.
Here’s what we want you to know about the importance of protecting your eyes from harmful sun exposure this summer
By embracing some simple actions and making them a way of life, you and your family can safely enjoy the great outdoors while protecting the health of your eyes and the sensitive skin around them
Wear those gorgeous sunglasses year-round whenever you are out in the sun. Sun damage to the eyes can occur at any time of the year.
Choose shades that block 99%-100% of both UVA and UVB light (UV Rays). When purchasing sunglasses, look for the Skin Cancer Foundations Seal of Recommendation.
Never stare at the sun! Both the front of the eye can burn, as well as the retina. A sunburned retina can cause damage to the macula, causing macular degeneration – you lose central vision and see dark spots. This damage is not reversible, however, progression can be slowed with a proper diet and supplements.
Never stare at the sun! Both the front of the eye can burn, as well as the retina. A sunburned retina can cause damage to the macula, causing macular degeneration – you lose central vision and see dark spots. This damage is not reversible, however, progression can be slowed with a proper diet and supplements.
Don’t forget sunglass protection for children and teenagers, they typically spend more time in the sun than adults. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap in addition to sunglasses increases their eye protection from the sun. This will help protect your face and the top of your head.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher to protect yourself when you need to take those gorgeous shades off. Choose one that is safe for your face and eyes.
Be aware of clouds, the sun’s rays can pass through haze and clouds, so eye protection is important even when there is cloud cover.
Take extra care near water, snow and sand, 80% or more of the sun’s rays reflect of these surfaces, so that they hit your eyes and skin a second time.
UV Rays increase with altitude so be sure when you protect your eyes whilst skiing, snowboarding and hiking.
Seek shade whenever possible, especially during times when the sun is most intense (typically 10am – 4pm)
If your eyes are exposed to too much UV radiation, you could be at an increased risk of conditions including:
– Corneal sunburn, also called keratitis or “snowblindness”
– Skin cancers on your eyelids and around your eyes
– Conjunctival cancers in your eyes
– Cataracts and related progressive vision loss
– Macular degeneration, a condition involving UV damage to the central area of your retina
– Signs of premature aging around your eyes
If you are experiencing any problems or have any concerns give us a call and we can help you.
Remember to have fun in the sun but look after those eyes!
