When you’re heading out into the sun, your skin is not the only thing that needs protection from harmful rays. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to eye damage of varying degrees, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis.
Whether it’s a cloudy or sunny day, it’s equally vital to take necessary measures to protect your eyes from solar radiation in order to reduce the risk of future eye problems. An expert eye doctor in Edwardsburg, MI, from Southwest Vision Center™ can share tips to help prevent eye damage from exposure to these rays.
How UV Rays Affect Your Eyes
Ultraviolet rays are a part of solar radiation. In general, there are three types of UV radiation. UV-C is the least hazardous among the three, as it gets absorbed by the ozone layer. UV-A and UV-B, however, both poses long- and short-term negative effects to the eyes and vision.
The effects of solar radiation, specifically UV, can be cumulative. The longer the eyes are exposed to solar radiation, the greater the risk for developing eye damage later in life. That’s why Southwest Vision Center advises parents to purchase proper sunglasses and eyeglasses in Three Rivers, MI, for the family. To provide comprehensive eye protection, the eyewear should block out 99% to 100% of both UV-A and UV-B radiation and screen out 75% to 90% of visible light.
Effects of Shorter-Wavelength Visible Light
However, it’s not only UV radiation you should be concerned about. Studies suggest that chronic exposure to shorter-wavelength visible light (blue and violet light) might also cause damage to the retina. Many digital devices and gadgets emit this kind of visible light. Fluorescent light bulbs and LED lights are also some of its known sources.
It’s not clear how much exposure to solar radiation can cause damage, so wearing protective eyewear and a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outdoors is necessary. It’s also important to schedule an annual comprehensive eye exam with your trusted optometrist in Edwardsburg, MI, to better monitor your eye health.
See our eye specialists at Southwest Vision Center regularly so we can keep an eye on problems that might be developing due to solar radiation exposure. To schedule an appointment, simply give us a call at (269) 414-4492 or (269) 273-8588. You can also complete our contact form and we’ll get in touch with you.