Posted by: Northwest Eye in News on July 17, 2024
Summer is a time for outdoor adventures, lake days, and sunny skies. While enjoying the Minnesota heat and all it has to offer, it’s crucial to remember that your eyes need protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. At Northwest Eye, we are committed to helping you Be Eye Wise and protect your vision and maintain overall eye health with this ultimate guide to summer eye protection.
Why UV Protection Matters
Ultraviolet radiation can cause significant damage to your eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV rays increases the risk of several eye conditions including:
- Cataracts: UV exposure can accelerate the development of cataracts, causing your natural lens to become cloudy.
- Photokeratitis: Often compared to sunburn of the eye, photokeratitis can cause painful symptoms such as redness, tearing, and temporary vision loss.
- Pterygium: Also known as growths on your eye and are more common in those who have extended exposure to the sun.
Essential Tips for Protecting Your Eyes
- Certified Sunglasses: Choosing the right sunglasses greatly protects your eyes from UV rays. Opt for sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Look for labels indicating UV400 protection, this ensures the lens blocks wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. Polarized lenses are also beneficial as they reduce glare from reflecting surfaces like water, sand, and pavement.
- Wear a Hat: Wearing a wide brimmed hat can block about 50% of the UV rays. Choose a hat that’s at least three inches wide for optimal protection.
- Seek Shade: Staying out of the sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) is the simplest way to reduce UV ray exposure to your eyes.
- Protective Contact Lenses: If you are a contact lens wearer, ask your Northwest Eye provider about built-in UV protection options. These lenses provide an extra layer of defense but should still be used in conjunction with sunglasses.
- Environmental Awareness: With unending summer activities, knowing your surroundings is important. Being on water, sand, and bright pavement acts as reflection for the sun, causing UV rays to reach you at different angles. UV rays can even penetrate clouds, so protection on cloudy days is also key.
Special Consideration for Children
Children’s eyes are more susceptible to UV damage because they have larger pupils and clear lenses. Ensure they wear appropriate eye protection when outdoors. Look for sunglasses specifically designed for children and are made of impact resistant materials.
Be Eye Wise this Summer
At Northwest Eye, we emphasize the importance of understanding and protecting your eye health. Protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays is crucial for maintaining long-term vision health. By following these practical tips, you can enjoy the summer sun safely. Schedule an appointment at Northwest Eye today and take the first step toward better vision by calling (763) 416-7600 or requesting an appointment online. Check out our optical department for the latest styles of summer sunglasses. Be Eye Wise and safeguard your vision this summer and beyond!
