When we think of enjoying the sun, we often think of applying sunscreen to protect our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, what many of us forget is that our eyes are also susceptible to UV damage. It’s time to unveil the hidden dangers and learn how to protect your eyes from UV rays beyond sunglasses.
UV rays are invisible to the naked eye and can cause several eye diseases, such as cataracts, pterygium, and even skin cancer around the eyes. These dangers can come from various sources, including sunlight, tanning beds, and some types of light bulbs. Billions of people worldwide are at risk for eye diseases caused by UV rays, making it a significant public health issue. Here’s what you need to know to protect your eyes beyond sunglasses.
1. Hat up: When you’re out in the sun, a wide-brimmed hat can protect both your face and eyes from harmful UV rays. Choose a hat with a brim that’s at least three inches wide to ensure optimal protection. This is particularly important during the peak hours of the day when the sun’s rays are strongest.
2. Blue blockers: Blue blocking glasses help block out blue light, which can be harmful to the eyes. It’s crucial to note that blue light is emitted by electronic devices such as computers and phones. Using blue blockers during long hours of screen time can help reduce eye strain and fatigue. They also help improve sleep quality by reducing blue light exposure during night hours.
3. Contact lens protection: A good way to protect your eyes from UV rays is to wear contact lenses made with UV-blocking materials. However, not all contact lenses provide UV protection. Check with your optometrist to ensure your contact lenses have UV protection.
4. Stay hydrated: Drinking water is good for your overall health as well as your vision. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain the amount of water in eye tissues, which is essential for regular vision and focusing. Dehydration can cause headaches and dry eyes, among other health problems, so remember to drink plenty of water, particularly when spending time in the sun.
5. Regular checkups: Regular eye exams are essential to protect your eyes from damage caused by UV radiation. Your optometrist can detect early signs of eye diseases, and it is important to get checked as soon as possible. Early detection can help prevent further vision loss and complications.
The sun is often associated with good health, but it’s important to remember that our eyes are susceptible to UV damage, too. It’s crucial to protect your eyes from UV rays beyond sunglasses to keep your eyes healthy and disease-free. While shades are a good start, you can add extra protection by wearing a hat, using blue-blocking glasses, choosing contact lenses with UV protection, staying hydrated, and getting regular checkups. Remember, prevention is better than cure, and these small steps can go a long way in preserving your vision.