We wear shoes to protect our feet and gloves to protect our hands. We brush our teeth. We wear seatbelts. What do all these actions have in common? We do them as part of our efforts to take good care of ourselves.
That’s why it doesn’t make sense that with all the smart things we do to protect ourselves from harm, many of us still go outside into the bright sunshine without wearing protective sunglasses. And most of us know better. See if you do.
Why wear sunglasses?
Because the sun’s ray can cause:
- Damage to the eyes and surrounding skin
- Vision loss
- Cataracts and macular degeneration, even eye and eyelid cancer
What’s the good news?
You can take this one important step to help keep your eyes safe outdoors:
- WEAR SUNGLASSES
They should be the UVA and UVB blocking-type, worn whenever and wherever it’s sunny. And wear them daily because sun damage adds up.
More about sunglasses
Choose sunglasses with polarized lenses because they eliminate glare, especially when driving. They also help whenever you’re in the snow or water, where reflection magnifies the glare. And as most of us have experienced, glare can cause fatigue and headaches, and can even trigger migraines.
More about protecting your eyes and the skin around them
A big hat should be bestfriends with your sunglasses, as it can block up to half of the UVB rays that attack your eyes from the sides and above. And don’t forget sunscreen for the delicate skin around your eyes, an area that burns – and wrinkles – easily.
All this goes double for kids
Children spend more time outside, and they usually aren’t worrying about their eye health. It’s up to parents to set the example and the rules.
Contact lenses can do double duty
Some contact lenses already provide UV protection; with Class One UV-blockers doing the best job. You can ask us about protective contacts and anything else related to your eye health in the sun – or out. Call the Central Florida Eye Institute today for all of your eye health needs.
(352)237-8400 or toll-free (800)521-6028.