Why UV Protection is so Important When Choosing Sunglasses

When you are looking for eyewear in Jacksonville, FL, there are a few things that you have to keep in mind. If you are specifically looking for sunglasses, then one of the most important things to consider is UV Protection. Although sunglasses may have UV protection ratings, many consumers don't understand what they mean, or even why UV protection is important in sunglasses. Here are some reasons that you should pay attention to the UV protection that your shades offer.

What is UV Protection?

UV or Ultraviolet, is a form of radiation that comes from the sun. UV is only a part of the sun's normal rays, and this type of radiation is also present in tanning beds and other sources. There are three classifications of UV, but only A and B are harmful to the eyes and can do lasting damage to vision. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause both short term effects and long term harm. It is the long time effects that are most disconcerting - as UV radiation has been shown to cause serious harm to the eyes. That's why is it so important to incorporate UV protection in eyewear in Jacksonville, FL.

What Are the Potential Dangers of UV Radiation?

Short Term Effects: Eyes that have been exposed to this type of solar radiation over a short period of time may develop a condition called photokeratitis. Photokeratitis is a burning of the eyes and can be somewhat painful. Those with this condition may experience redness, grittiness in the eyes and sensitivity to light. However, this condition will usually clear up on its own and it almost never results in permanent damage.

Long-Term Effects: Failure to maintain UV radiation in the eyewear in Jacksonville, FL that you choose can result in serious effects. Long term exposure to UV radiation has been shown to cause cataracts and may cause permanent damage to the retina. This is even the case of a little bit of exposure over a period of years. There are also negative effects from other type of light as well. The longer that eyes are exposed to this radiation without the proper protection, the higher risk the person is for developing problems like cataracts or macular degeneration. Choosing sunglasses that offer this protection is the most important decision you can make for eyewear in Jacksonville, FL.

How to Choose the Proper Eyewear

In order to ensure that you have enough protection from the sun, your sunglasses should meet certain standards. They should block out at least 99% of the ultraviolet-A and ultraviolet-B rays and also protect you by blocking out at least 80 percent of visible light. You should make sure that you replace any sunglasses that have become scratched or damaged, because this can let in the stuff that you are trying to protect your eyes from, and both lenses should be the exact same color of grey. The grey color helps to recognize colors better than others. There are also options for lenses that work well in work that is hazardous to the eyes and for those who spend a great deal of time outdoors, there are wider "wrap-around" frames that can offer even better protection.

How Often Should You See Your Optometrist?

Your optometrist will tell you how often he or she wants to see you in the office, but the usual time frame is once per year for an eye exam. That way, you can make sure that your eyes are sufficiently healthy and you can catch any problems quickly. But protecting yourself with eyewear in Jacksonville, FL, is very important between visits, for both adults and kids.