Table of Contents
Introduction
Most people immediately think of using sunscreen to protect against the harmful effects of sunlight, but our eyes are also quite vulnerable to those same UV rays, which can cause serious eye problems like cataracts, macular degeneration, and several types of eye cancer. Although a sunburn can be painful, UV ray eye damage doesn’t cause any pain and builds up gradually. It does not give any warning signs.
Your eyes need to be protected if you are sunbathing or just strolling along in cloudy weather. Here we’ll explain who is at risk for vision damage related to those harmful UV rays. You’ll also learn how those UV rays can damage your eyes and how best to protect them every day.
What Are UV Rays and How Do They Affect Your Eyes?
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are emitted by the sun. They are a kind of invisible electromagnetic radiation of which there are three kinds: UVA, UVB and UVC. Although UVC rays are pretty much absorbed by Earth’s atmosphere, UVA and UVB rays can reach Earth’s surface and are a serious health risk both to our skin and our eyes. Being exposed to UV rays for a long time causes quite a bit of eye damage that builds up over time, even when there doesn’t seem to be very much sunlight on cloudy days.
UV rays have a serious effect on our eyes’ structure. If the overexposure has been for a short period of time, it can cause a condition called photokeratitis, more commonly called “sunburn of the eye”. People who have this condition experience symptoms like pain, redness, tearing, and temporary loss of vision. When overexposure has been for a longer period, more serious conditions can develop, like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even ocular melanoma, which is a cancer of the eye. Since these effects slowly build up, our eyes must be protected every time we step outside – not just at the beach in the summertime but any time, in any type of weather.
Who Is Most at Risk for UV Eye Damage?
Some groups of people, such as children, are more adversely affected by exposure to UV radiation than adults. They are more at risk because their eye lenses are clearer, thus more UV rays are able to reach their retina. Construction workers, athletes, and those who spend a great deal of time outdoors are also exposed to higher UV levels. Those who live in high-altitude areas or where sunlight is strong all year, like around the equator, will receive even more intense UV exposure because there, the atmosphere protection is thinner.
There are a few other risk factors, such as for people with blue or green eyes, because their eyes provide less natural UV protection. There are also those who have certain medical conditions or take medication that increases photosensitivity, which can put them more at risk. Even simply driving without sunglasses or being near surfaces like water, snow, or sand that are reflective can raise their risk. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, prolonged exposure to UV radiation over time can increase the risk of developing cataracts and other eye problems later in life.
What Are the Best Ways to Protect Your Eyes from UV Exposure?
Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays is the best way to prevent UV damage to your eyes. Make sure that the sunglasses you select are marked 100%UV or UV400. That means that those sunglass lenses can block wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, which covers the complete spectrum of harmful rays. Selecting sunglasses that are wraparound or oversized models is the best since their UV exposure is completely reduced, including exposure from the sides. If you also wear a sun hat with a wide brim, you’ll be getting even more protection from the sun, particularly when sunlight is the strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There are a few other small changes you can make to protect your eyes from sun damage. Try to stay in the shade as much as you can, particularly during peak UV radiation time. You can also check with your eye care specialist for UV protection options if you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses. They might suggest some protective features like lenses that have built-in UV filters or photochromic (transition) lenses. This type of lens will darken in sunlight. Always remember to follow these suggestions even when it’s a cloudy or cool day because they’ll help to lessen the risk of long-term eye damage. This type of damage could be cataracts, macular degeneration, as well as other UV-related vision problems.
Can Regular Prescription Glasses or Contacts Protect Against UV Rays?
Why Is UV Eye Protection Important Even on Cloudy Days?
Don’t think that your eyes are safe from UV rays on cloudy days because even when it is not sunny, up to 80% of UV rays can still get through the clouds. Be sure to remember that even when the sun isn’t very bright, harmful radiation can still reach your eyes if they aren’t being protected. Just remember that your eyes are still exposed to sun damage regardless of the amount of sun on any given day. For this reason, eye care specialists tell you to wear UV protective sunglasses all year, not just during the summer or on very sunny days.
Remember too, that being near reflective surfaces like water, snow, sand, and concrete makes your exposure even stronger in any kind of weather. Being under an umbrella at the beach or a parasol when strolling, even if you’re wearing a good sun hat, you will not get the best type of UV protection that you would get if you were wearing sunglasses with complete UV protection.
How Often Should You Get Your Eyes Checked for UV-Related Damage?
Regular eye exams play an important role in the detection and prevention of UV-related vision damage. Depending upon your age, risk factors, and whether you wear corrective lenses, adults should have a comprehensive eye exam once every year or two. Those over 60 or with eye diseases, or people who are outside for a good deal of time would be better served if they had their eyes checked more often. During these exams, your eye specialist will be able to find early indications of cataracts, macular degeneration, or other problems that were due to a lot of UV exposure, of which you may not already be aware.
If you find that you have symptoms such as sensitivity to light, blurry vision, or constant eye discomfort, it is strongly advised to get your eyes checked as soon as you possibly can. Proper care and regular eye protection are your best partners for preserving your eye health and lessening the risk of adverse complications.
FAQs
How Can Golden Vision Help Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays?
At Golden Vision, our team helps protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by providing comprehensive eye exams and expert guidance tailored to your needs. We offer a wide selection of sunglasses and prescription lenses with UV-blocking technology to shield your eyes from long-term damage like cataracts and macular degeneration. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or your family, we’ll help you find stylish, protective eyewear to keep your eyes healthy all year long. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward better eye protection.
Reach out to Golden Vision and book an appointment for personalized advice and support tailored to your unique needs.
