Don’t Let the Sun Damage Your Eyes – Remember Your Sunglasses!

Most of us remember to protect our skin from sunburn, but protecting our eyes from the damage done by ultraviolet light is just as important. Too much exposure to UV light raises your risk of cataracts, eye cancers, and other diseases of the eyes.

By wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, you can enjoy the summer safely while lowering your risk for potentially blinding eye disorders. All sunglasses are not created equal though, so here are some tips on choosing sunglasses from the American Academy of Ophthalmology:

• Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation. Make sure they offer 100 percent protection from either UVA/UVB or UV 400 radiation.
• Unsure? Take your sunglasses to an optical shop or an ophthalmologist’s office to test the UV-blocking ability.
• Buy oversized or wraparound-style. The more coverage, the better.
• Don’t be fooled by the color. While dark lenses may look cool, they do not block more UV rays.
• Sunglasses don’t have to be expensive. Less expensive pairs marked as 100 percent UV-blocking can be just as effective.
• Don’t forget the kids. Children are just as susceptible to the sun’s harmful rays as adults. Start them on healthy habits early.
• Consider polarized lenses to reduce sun glare. They don’t add more eye protection, but they can make activities like driving or being on the water safer or more enjoyable.

The Atlantic Eye team wishes you a summer filled with fun under the sun, as long as the whole family’s eyes are protected behind those UV-Blocking shades!

Our offices are open and we are here to monitor your eye health and help preserve your precious eyesight. If you have questions, or to make an appointment at one of our 4 locations, call us at 732-222-7373.