If you’re happy as we are that summer is FINALLY around the corner, be sure to read this so you can take care of your eyes without causing them harm.

Summer or winter, all year round it’s important that you keep your eyes protected from the sun. Since UV rays are not visible to our eyes, we don’t realize what we’re being exposed to.  Even during an overcast or snowy day the sun’s UV rays can damage the eyes.  Some medications such as diuretics, tetracycline and sulfa drugs can also increase your sensitivity to UV rays.  Long-term exposure to UV Rays can also lead to eye disorders such as cataracts and macular degeneration.  So it’s best to make sure you’re always protected.

In order to help you chose the best protection lets go into more detail on what UV rays really are.

UV rays can be divided into three parts:

• UV-C Rays: these are the highest energy rays and are mostly filtered out by the earth’s ozone layers before they reach the earth’s surface
• UV-B Rays: these rays have a longer wavelength and are responsible for suntans and sun burns.  They are also linked to skin cancer, wrinkles and premature aging.
• UV-A Rays: these rays pass through the cornea and can damage the retina and the lens leading to some forms of cataracts.

Some things to remember when choosing your sunglasses:

Not all sunglasses are the same.  Read the label carefully since not all sunglasses offer UV protection.  Wearing polarized sunglasses helps cut out reelection and glare.  This is particularly important to those playing sports.  For those with contact lenses, remember to choose UV blocking contact lenses.

Remember wearing sunglasses doesn’t have to be expensive. You can look great in your sunglasses and have the protection you need to keep your eyes healthy!

If you have any questions about UV Rays or eye health in general, feel free to call us and we’ll be happy to help.