Why you need to protect your eyes from the sun
- Posted on: Jul 15 2020
One of the simplest things we can do to protect the health of our eyes is to take care of them when we are out in the sun. This is true no matter what time of year it is. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning beds not only damage skin, but it can damage our eyes as well. Read on for eye conditions related to sun exposure and what you can do to prevent them.
Damage to eyes
UV radiation is linked to several serious eye conditions, including corneal sunburn, cataracts, macular degeneration—even conjunctival eye cancers. Photokeratitis, also known as snow blindness, can develop after exposure to UV reflections off of water, snow and sand.
Damage to eyelids
UV radiation also damages the delicate skin around the eyes, causing premature aging and skin cancer. Eyelid cancers are usually treatable when diagnosed early, but untreated eye cancers can lead to blindness.
6 steps to sun protection
Sun safety is important year-round. Here are six simple steps you can take to maintain eye health:
- Wear sunglasses that block 99-100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. Beware of cloud cover as well. The sun’s rays can move through clouds and haze.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes and face.
- Put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, taking special care around the eye area.
- Seek the shade when the sun is most intense, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Be extra careful when around water, snow and sand because those are reflective surfaces, and the sun’s rays can cause even more damage.
- And do not look directly at the sun. It can damage the eye’s retina and cause what’s called solar retinopathy.
Regular eye exams will help your eyes stay healthy and help you stay on top of any eye diseases and conditions. To schedule an eye exam with Physicians Eye Clinic, contact our Everett office at (425) 259-2020.
Posted in: Routine Eye Care
