The majority of Americans are aware of the threats of Ultraviolet (UV) light to your skin, (such as sunburn and skin cancer) and the need for using sunscreen and avoiding direct contact with the sun when spending time in the sun. But did you know that ultraviolet rays and other radiation from the sun are also a danger to your eyes?
If you are thinking of leaving the house without proper eye protection, think again. Frequent absorption of harmful ultraviolet light has been linked to damage to the eye.
UV Risks to Eyesight
Exposure to excessive amounts of UV over a short interval can cause a ''sunburn on the eye'', which results in pain, blurry vision or even temporary blindness. Long-term ultraviolet exposure can cause more threatening eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and others, which can cause vision loss. Just like the real thing, tanning beds pose a serious threat of overexposure to UV.
UV Eye Protection
To shield your eyes from dangerous UV rays, you should be careful to select sunglasses that completely block all UV rays. Stick with shades labeled ''UV 400'', which means that they block all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers (which includes both UVA and UVB rays, both known to enter the atmosphere).
You also want to choose sunglasses with full eye coverage. Wraparound sunglasses can block dangerous ultraviolet rays from entering from the sides and back of the frame.
You don't have to pay a lot to have proper UV protection, but it's essential to be certain the sunglasses offer complete solar coverage. Many less expensive brands do offer proper defense from the harmful risks of exposure to UV light. The great news is that as well as guarding your eyes from the harmful sunlight, trendy sunglasses are in style, so find something you love and have fun in the sun!
