Choosing the Right Prescription Sunglasses: Protect Your Eyes from the Sun this Summer
Going out in the sun is a big part of the fun of summer. However, that same sun that is so pleasant to be out in can be very damaging to your eyes. We all know about wearing sunscreen, but it can be easy to forget that you need sunglasses, too. If you are a Mentor area resident who needs prescription sunglasses, Erie Optical can help.
Why Wear Prescription Sunglasses
Exposure to UV radiation is damaging to the cells of your body. If you do not protect your eyes from the sun using non-prescription or prescription sunglasses, the lifetime of damage that builds up in your cells can cause disease. Our optometrist sees some of these diseases on a regular basis:
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Pingueculae
- Photokeratitis
Photokeratitis is basically sunburn on your eyes. It can be painful and temporarily damage your vision, but the effects are not usually long-lasting. However, cataracts and macular degeneration can cause permanent loss of vision. Pingueculae, which are small growths, may be unsightly and can cause minor vision issues.
Sunglasses of all kinds should be rated "UV 400" or otherwise state that they block 100 percent of UV rays. Cheaper sunglasses do not always meet this standard, but all sunglasses purchased through Erie Optical are designed to provide full protection.
Optical Options for Prescription Sunglasses
Prescription sunglasses do not have to boring or bland—the optical options are nearly endless. There are a number of ways to customize your look while wearing this type of vital visual protection:
- Shape
- Style
- Material
- Frame color
- Lens tint
- Level of tint (including photochromatic lenses)
- Mirror color
- Polarization
Many people choose a gray tint because it renders true colors, but the tint of the lens is actually not what determines whether they are UV protective or not. Choose any tint you want, especially if it will make you more likely to wear them!
Visit Erie Optical in Mentor
If you are in need of a new pair of prescription sunglasses, our optometrist is ready to help. Erie Optical is located in Mentor, OH, and serves the surrounding area as well. To make an appointment, call 440-255-7727 today.