Protect Your Eyes
You're packing for vacation and checking items off your list as you pack them in your beach bag:
- Swimsuit. Check.
- Towel. Check.
- Sunscreen. Check.
- Hat. Check.
Make sure you take your sunglasses!
Sometimes people forget how dangerous the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can be to their eyes, because the damage is gradual. UV exposure can contribute to cataract formation, and it is not good for macular degeneration. Exposure to UV light is also thought to contribute to pterygium (growth on the surface of the eye).
Get the right protection
Protect your eyes from the sun. Susan Thoms, M.D., Associate Professor, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, U-M Kellogg Eye Center - Livonia, says people should purchase sunglasses that block 99-100% of UV rays. She says, "Don't buy the dime store Donald Duck version for your children unless they contain UV protection." Wraparound sunglasses with protection at the sides are the best choice. The color of the lens doesn't matter.
UV damage is cumulative, so protecting children's eyes is very important. Some kids are reluctant to wear sunglasses, but Thoms says it is important to keep trying. She adds that parents should also purchase wide-brimmed hats for their kids and themselves.
That protection is even important on an overcast day. Thoms recommends wearing a hat, or lightly tinted sunglasses that block UV light if you'll be outdoors for prolonged periods of time on cloudy days.
Watch Out if You're on the Water
Sun reflecting off the water increases the intensity of the UV rays. If you're going to the pool, the beach, or you'll be on a boat, it is especially important that you take precautions. A condition, called photokeratitis occurs when UV rays actually burn the surface of the cornea. It is similar to sunburn and is more likely to occur in areas where the sun is highly reflected - like off water.
Knowledge
Thoms says people are becoming more aware of the need to protect their eyes from the sun. Don't forget your sunglasses. You need them to protect your eyes.
There is a U-M Kellogg Eye Center near you. To find one near you, here's a list: http://www.kellogg.umich.edu/patientcare/locations.html.
Visit the Kellogg Eye Center web site to take a quiz about eye care.
Dr. Thoms is one of several doctors who has volunteered to help end preventable blindness in third world countries. Read about her trip.
Originally published in June, 2010.
