Ultraviolet Awareness Month - Protect Your Vision
Thanks to campaigns to create awareness of the hazards of Ultraviolet (UV) radiation to your skin, (particularly sunburn and skin cancer), most are familiar with the importance of using sunscreen and using other forms of sun protection when spending time in the sun. What is less known is that ultraviolet rays and other harmful types of radiation from the sun can also cause severe damage to your eyes.
If you tend to face the sun without proper eye protection, think again. Prolonged exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays has been shown to cause eye damage.
UV Risks to Vision
Excessive UV exposure over a short amount of time is known to lead to a ''sunburn of the eye'', leading to pain, blurred vision or even temporary blindness. Long-term ultraviolet exposure can result in more serious eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and others, all of which can cause vision loss. Individuals that come into frequent contact with welding machines, tanning beds and lasers are also at increased risk of exposure to UV radiation.
How to Choose Protective Sunglasses
To protect your eyes from threatening UV rays, you should be careful to select sunglasses that completely block all UV rays. Look for shades labeled ''UV 400'', which indicates that they prevent both UVA and UVB rays from entering your eyes (400 refers to the wavelength of light in nanometers).
The size of your sunglasses is also important. Wraparound sunglasses can prevent dangerous ultraviolet light from coming in through the sides and back of the frame.
You don't have to spend a lot of money on your sunglasses to have sufficient UV coverage, but you should not make a purchase until you are certain the sunglasses give full UV coverage. More and more manufacturers recognize the importance of offering proper UV defense. The great news is that in addition to guarding your eyes from the risks of UV exposure, trendy sunglasses are at the height of fashion, so find something you love and have fun in the sun!
