Protecting Your Eyes from the Sun

We’ve all been told to protect our skin from the harsh rays of the sun by using a skin protection factor (SPF). Yet, many of us never think about the damage that those rays can do to our eyes. Recent research into the causes and treatments of eye diseases has produced some new information about maintaining eye health. While aging and genetic predisposition are two uncontrollable contributing factors that influence eye health, there are things you can do to minimize vision loss. Smoking and sunlight are two risk factors thought to contribute to eye disease. While a person can choose not to smoke, for most people, it is hard to avoid sunlight.

Living in Southern California means greater exposure to sunlight, thought to be a risk factor for age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and corneal problems, among other conditions. The thinning of the ozone layer has resulted in greater levels of ultraviolet (UV) light, which can cause changes in the eye. Shielding your eyes from the sun is particularly important for older adults because they are more at risk, and can be more sensitive to glare.

Protecting your eyes from the damaging effects of the sun can be simple. The most important step is to protect your eyes from ultraviolet light by wearing glasses with UV-A and UV-B protection. Look for a label that indicates the glasses absorb 99-100 percent of the UV light. Remember that a dark lens does not necessarily mean UV protection. Glasses that have top and side shields or wrap-around frames reduce exposure to sunlight. An ultraviolet coating can also be put on any lens, regardless of the degree of tint. There are lenses that adjust to sun exposure, darkening with the sun, those that fit over glasses, slip behind glasses, clip on or flip up. Hats and visors help protect your eyes from exposure to sunlight, too. Good glasses or filters can also decrease glare and increase contrast. If you are unsure what would be best for you, consult your eyecare professional.

For more information about eye health, or about low vision rehabilitation services, call The Center for the Partially Sighted at 310-988-1970.

Last Updated: Friday, December 18th, 2009 at 03:29:22 Back to top