Sunglasses have the power to make the world a cooler place, and not just cool as in looking cool. In addition to shielding your eyes from bright Florida sunshine, and making you look like a million bucks, the right pair of sunglasses can actually protect your eyes from the ultraviolet rays that can contribute to a number of eye diseases, including cataracts.
Cataracts and Sunlight
Cataracts form when the proteins that make up the eye’s lens begin to break down and clump together. This occurs naturally over time, but can be made worse by a number of factors, including chronic exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. As this happens, the lens becomes thick and cloudy, preventing light from passing through. This is what’s known as a cataract. Once you develop a cataract, surgery is the only effective treatment. The damaged natural lens must be surgically replaced with an artificial lens implant.
Protecting Your Eyes with Sunglasses
Much of the cataract-producing damage caused by the sun’s UV rays can be prevented by wearing proper sunglasses. Studies show that wearing UV-blocking sunglasses when you’re young helps reduce the risks of developing cataracts as you age. The key is selecting sunglasses that provide 100 percent UVA and UVB protection. UVA and UVB are the variations of ultraviolet rays that can be damaging to your eyes. Many people take UV protection for granted when buying sunglasses, but just because the lenses are tinted dark, doesn’t mean they’re equipped to protect your eyes from UV rays.
A reliable pair of UV-blocking sunglasses will have UV protection embedded in the lenses rather than just a coating on the lenses. Many brands list the UV protection rating on the label, but your best bet is to confirm with your local optical shop or your optometrist.
Other Eye Health Factors
Cataracts aren’t the only potential eye risk associated of too much exposure to UV rays. Short-term effects can include photokeratitis and photoconjunctivitis, inflammations of certain eye structures, caused by direct acute expose to UV rays. These often feel like you’ve sunburned your eyes. Longer-lasting effects can include pterygium, a condition in which a layer of cells can grow across the cornea and must be surgically removed, and the development of squamous cell cancers of the eye, which can lead to blindness. Macular degeneration is also promoted by long-term UV exposure.
As summers heats up, it’s only natural to want to get outdoors and enjoy all our beautiful state has to offer. Just remember to care for your eyes by protecting them with a great pair of sunglasses.
At North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care, our two convenient local optical shops offer an outstanding selection of UV-blocking sunglasses from stylish brands, including Kate Spade, Etnia Barcelona, Costa Del Mar and more. Contact us today at 352-373-4300 to make an appointment or just stop in and talk to our knowledgeable staff.