Summer Eye Care Tips from Our Maple Ridge Optometrists
While we all want to get outside and enjoy the nice weather this summer, our Maple Ridge optometrists advise patients to remember proper eye care. Although it feels good, the UV rays in sunshine can be especially harmful to eyes and the delicate skin surrounding them. If eyes are left unprotected, sun-related damage sometimes leads to karatitis, corneal sunburn, macular degeneration, cataracts, intraocular melanoma, and even conjunctival (eye) cancers. We advise patients to safeguard their eyes this summer (and every day - no matter the season) with the following tips.
Wear Sunglasses - Sunglass lenses should offer 99 to 100% UV protection, guarding eyes against a spectrum of harmful UV rays. Styles which offer the most protection cover the entire eye area, and wrap closely around the face, blocking rays from all directions. Polarized lenses also reduce glare.
Contact Lenses - Some contact lenses offer UV protection as well. If you wear contact lenses, consider a variety which also provides protection from the sun.
Wear Sunscreen - Although you cannot put sunscreen directly on your eyes, it will protect delicate surrounding skin from the sun.
Wear a Hat - Wearing a hat with at least a three-inch brim will shade the face from sunlight, protecting it from UV rays.
Seek Shade - Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the sun is at its strongest and brightest. During this part of the day, find shade as often as possible to protect your eyes.
Start Young - Studies have shown children's eyes take in more UV rays than adult eyes and they are also more affected by the rays than adults. 50% of UV damage to the retina, the inner lining at the very back of the eye, and the crystalline lens occurs by age 10 and 80% by age 18. For this reason, children should always have sunglasses which offer UV protection. For more durability, look for shatter-resistant polycarbonate lenses.
Maple Ridge Eye Care: Protecting Your Vision
At Maple Ridge Eye Care, we are committed to protecting your vision. We welcome both patients and non-patients to stop by our optical center to browse our wide selection of quality sunglasses and lens options. And until August 31st, we are offering $90. off polarized or Transitions® lenses with any prescription lens purchase.
What summer activities bring you into the summer sun most often?