Protecting Your Eyes From UV Radiation: Why Sunglasses Are a Must

Sunglasses are a popular fashion accessory. They also play a crucial role in protecting our eyes from harmful ultraviolet radiation. It would help to understand how sunglasses can help protect your eyes and vision. 

What Is UV Radiation?

The sun emits electromagnetic radiation, including UV rays. The three categories of ultraviolet radiation are UVA, UVB, and UVC, with UVC being the most hazardous. The Earth's atmosphere absorbs most UVC radiation, so it requires little alarm. But that is not the case with UVA and UVB rays, which can pass through the atmosphere and harm your skin and eyes.

How Does UV Radiation Damage Our Eyes?

Our eyes are susceptible to both immediate and long-term harm from UV light. A painful condition known as photokeratitis, or eye sunburn, can develop due to short-term damage. Tearing, redness, and light sensitivity are the signs it may manifest. Long-term harm is worse and can result in cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions.

Why Sunglasses Are a Must

Sunglasses are a practical way to shield your eyes from UV rays. They are a necessity for eye protection for the following reasons:
 

• Block UV Radiation: 100% UV-protective sunglasses can filter up to 99% of UVA and UVB rays.

• Reduce Glare: They can also reduce glare, which can be particularly helpful when driving or participating in outdoor activities.

• Prevent Photokeratitis: They can shield the eyes from temporary harm like photokeratitis or sunburn.

• Prevent Cataracts: Long-term UV radiation exposure can raise the risk of cataracts. Sunglasses can lower this danger.

• Prevent Macular Degeneration: UV radiation can contribute to the development of macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss in those over 50. Sunglasses can help prevent this.

• Protect the Skin Around the Eyes: Sunglasses can help shield the delicate skin around the eyes from aging and wrinkle-causing sun damage.

• Prevent Eye Cancer: Long-term UV radiation exposure can increase your chance of acquiring eye melanoma. Using sunglasses can lower this risk.

• Style and Comfort: Sunglasses can also be a chic and relaxed way to complement your appearance and uplift your mood.

Choosing the Right Sunglasses

There are a few considerations to bear in mind when selecting sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays:
 

Look for Sunglasses With 100% UV Protection

You want to ensure the sunglasses you buy completely block UVA and UVB rays. For that, check the label or ask the salesman.

Consider Their Shape and Size
 

Generally speaking, sunglasses that cover more of the eye area are more effective at blocking UV rays.

Choose Polarized Lenses for Reduced Glare

Polarized lenses can help reduce glare when driving or participating in outdoor activities.

Look for Quality Lenses

Spending more money on a more expensive pair of shades might be worthwhile. They are worth it because they provide more clarity and protection.

Conclusion

Maintaining sound eye health and avoiding numerous eye issues requires protecting your eyes from UV radiation. Following these easy steps, you can contribute to eye protection and long-term eye health. Remember that your eyes' health is crucial to your entire well-being. Hence, it pays to take good care of them and visit an eye specialist for routine examinations and screenings.

For more on eye protection, visit Ridgeview Eye Care at our Olathe, Kansas, office. Call or text (913) 270-8598 to schedule an appointment today.