We all know to use sunscreen to protect our skin during the warmer months, but don't forget to protect your eyes as well.  Summertime means more time spent outdoors, and studies show that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and growths on the eye or the skin around the eyes, including cancer.  

Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the dangers UV light can pose.  By following a few simple tips, you can enjoy your summer activities safely while reducing your risk for eye disease and cancer.

• Select sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.  Don't be deceived by color!  The ability to block UV light is not dependent on how dark the lenses are.  It is also wise to consider UV block in your everyday eyewear.
• Choose wraparound styles.  Ideally, your sunglasses should wrap all the way around to your temples, so the sun's rays can't enter from the side.  This will also protect the delicate skin around your eyes.
• Wear a hat with a brim in addition to sunglasses.
• Don't rely on contact lenses.  Even if your contact lenses contain UV block, always remember to wear sunglasses, too.
• Don't be fooled by the clouds.  The sun's rays can pass through haze and clouds.  Sun damage can occur any time of the year, so be sure to wear your sunglasses whenever you're outside.
• Never look directly at the sun.  Looking directly at the sun at any time, including during an eclipse, can lead to solar retinopathy, which is damage to the retina from solar radiation.
• Don't forget the kids!  Everyone is at risk, including children.  Be sure to protect their eyesight with hats and sunglasses as well.

From major league baseball stadiums to small town ball fields, athletes of all ages are competing against each other, building physical fitness, entertaining millions and teaching the value of hard work and teamwork.

But for more than 40,000 athletes each year, their game can be ruined by an errant finger, misjudged catch or a stray ball.  That's the number of sports related eye injuries that occur annually in the United States.  Approximately one-third of eye-injury victims are children.  In fact, eye injuries are one of the leading causes of visual impairment in children.  These injuries range from corneal abrasions and eyelid bruising to internal eye damage such as retinal detachments and internal bleeding.  Unfortunately, some of these young athletes end up with permanent vision loss and perhaps blindness.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the only way to prevent a sports-related eye injury is for athletes to wear appropriate, sport-specific protective eyewear properly fitted by an eye care professional.  Lenses made from polycarbonate materials provide the highest level of impact protection; they can withstand the impact of a ball or other projectile traveling at 90 miles per hour.

Many sports create risk for eye injuries; however, protection is available for most activities, including basketball, baseball, hockey, football, lacrosse, fencing, paintball, as well as raquetball, tennis, soccer, and water sports.  Most sporting leagues don't require children to wear eye protection, so parents should insist that their children wear eye protection when they play.  Parents can also set a good example by wearing protective eyewear when they participate in sports. 

Even a seemingly light blow can cause a serious eye injury.  If a black eye, pain or visual problem occurs after a blow, contact your eye care provider immediately.