Spending time outdoors will expose your eyes to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Without precautions, long-term UV exposure may affect your vision and cause damage. Taking preventative measures and getting regular eye exams from an optometrist at Collins Eye Center can help. Here is what you need to know about protecting your eyes from sun overexposure:
Understanding the Risks of UV Exposure
UV radiation contributes to multiple eye conditions, including cataracts, photokeratitis, and pterygium. Cataracts cause clouding in the eye’s lens and will lead to blurred vision. Photokeratitis is a temporary but painful condition that is like a sunburn on the cornea. Pterygium is a tissue growth in the corner of your eye. Over time, it could extend far enough out to affect your vision.
Exposure to UV rays may also increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration. This condition affects your vision and may cause irreversible damage. Prolonged exposure might be a contributing factor in premature aging of your eyes. At Collins Eye Center, an optometrist will give you a thorough eye exam to look for these conditions.
Implementing Strategies To Protect Your Eyes
Look for sunglasses that block a large percentage of UV rays. These will provide you with the best possible protection for your eyes. Wraparound glasses prevent UV rays from entering from the sides, offering more protection. Wearing these sunglasses daily, even overcast days, will prevent cumulative UV damage.
Choosing protective eyewear based on your lifestyle will allow for smooth daily operation with the protection you need. If you are an athlete or enjoy being active outdoors, explore the benefits of impact-resistant sunglasses with UV protection. You can also opt for wide-brimmed hats to help keep the sun out of your eyes. During peak sunlight hours, seek shade to minimize direct sun contact. If you wear contact lenses, you can find options with ultraviolet protection and combine them with sunglasses for optimal UV ray mitigation. Apply a UV-blocking film to your home’s windows for indoor protection.
Recognizing Signs of Sun-related Eye Damage
UV exposure will cause damage before obvious symptoms appear. Irritation, a gritty sensation, and redness could indicate mild sun-related issues. Excessive tearing or increased light sensitivity could also be signs of prolonged sun and UV exposure. Milder symptoms may resolve on their own but could indicate deeper issues if they persist.
Long-term UV exposure might lead to more serious damage. Some symptoms include difficulty seeing in low light, frequent pain or discomfort, or blurred vision. These issues may indicate cumulative sun damage. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with your optometrist for a prompt eye exam.
Visiting Optometrists for Proper Eye Care
Getting routine eye exams will help to detect early signs of sun-related damage. An optometrist will assess your eye’s health and provide recommendations for protection. Detecting conditions like cataracts or macular degeneration early on allows for efficient intervention. At Collins Eye Center, we offer comprehensive eye exams to evaluate your vision and preserve its health.
Optometrists will also provide guidance on protective eyewear. Through an optometrist, you can receive both UV protection and ideal vision with prescription sunglasses. Regular eye exams will allow you to track your eye health and make any adjustments. Expert preventative care will prevent smaller issues from developing into larger ones.
Choose Us as Your Eye Care Team
UV radiation negatively impacts eye health over time. Wearing special sunglasses, using other protective measures, and seeing your optometrist regularly will reduce risks. Our team is also available to help treat other eye-related issues, such as dry eye, eye strain, macular degeneration, and more. Contact Collins Eye Center to learn more about UV damage or schedule an appointment.
