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AAO: Protect your eyes from dangerous sun damage
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Summer is in full swing with temperatures rising and ultraviolet rays at their highest, so the American Academy of Ophthalmology has issued a reminder that sunglasses are an important form of protection for eyes.
Long-term sun exposure can increase the risk for eye diseases such as cataract, macular degeneration, growths on the eye and a rare form of eye cancer, while short-term exposure can cause damage such as photokeratitis, according to a press release from the AAO.
Prevention is simple with UVA- and UVB-blocking sunglasses. The AAO recommends wearing oversized glasses to cover the majority of the eye and making sure they protect from dangerous radiation.
Polarized lenses, which reduce glare from reflective surfaces, are a good option as well, according to the release.
“It is important to protect your eyes year-round, not just during the summer,” Dianna Seldomridge, MD, clinical spokesperson for the AAO, said in the release. “Harmful UV rays are present even on cloudy days. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat also cuts down on exposure. And don’t forget babies and kids. They also need to wear hats and sunglasses.”
More information on eye protection can be found at the AAO’s EyeSmart website.