We’re fighting an invisible enemy.
Every day – under sunny or cloudy skies and despite the season – all of us are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. We may not even realise it because UV radiation is invisible to the eye.
It’s vitally important to understand the harmful effects UV light can have on your eyesight, and the steps you can take to counteract it. The damage UV rays can cause to your eyesight builds cumulatively over time.
Most people know about the need to protect their skin from harmful UV rays, so they apply sunblock when they plan to be in the sun for extended periods of time. Yet few people realise that their eyes are just as vulnerable and need protection just as much.
Research indicates that the damage that can occur over time from prolonged exposure to harmful UVA and UVB rays (damage from UV exposure is cumulative, building each and every time your eyes are exposed to the sun) may contribute to short-term vision impairment and potentially serious age-related conditions or diseases of the eye, including cataracts. UV light may also contribute to macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people over 60 years old.
Exposure to UV light can also result in what is essentially a “sunburn” of the eye’s surface, a condition known as photokeratitis. Two other common types of damage to the eye’s surface from UV exposure are benign yellowish growths known as pinguecula and pterygium. You don’t need to know how to pronounce them – but you should know how to avoid them.
It’s also very important to protect the delicate skin around your eyes by blocking UV rays. Wearing a wide brimmed hat and protective eye wear can help.
It’s never too early – and never too late – to protect yourself.
You can take a critical step to help combat UV damage to your eyes by wearing eyeglass lenses that block UV rays. Transitions® lenses block 100% of invisible UVA and UVB rays. As the damage is cumulative, it’s never too early – or too late – to start protecting yourself and your family.
Following are more steps you can take everyday to lessen UV damage:
- Check daily UV levels in your area and plan accordingly
- Stay out of the sun when UV is at high levels
- Wear a wide brimmed hat and other protective clothing in bright sunlight
- Be sure to wear protective glasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays