30 Aug THE REASONS YOU NEED TO WEAR SUNGLASSES
Spring is here and summer is quickly approaching. What does this mean for you? Our good friend the sun is coming out to play. The sun is the most important source of energy for life on Earth, providing warmth & sunlight. But the sun is not always kind to your eyes, which is why your need your trusty sidekick, your sunglasses.
Many people understand the dangerous effects the sun has on your skin, but not on your eyes. Research suggests that the sun’s high-energy visible (HEV) radiation may increase your long-term risk of macular degeneration, in addition to causing retinal damage.
UVC (ultra violet short-wavelength) and UVA (long-wavelength) radiation can also be harmful to your eyes; UVC radiation is potentially the more harmful of the two. Luckily, the earth’s atmosphere’s ozone layer blocks most of these rays. Approximately 90% of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface is UVA. UVA rays can pass through the cornea and reach the lens, then the retina inside the eye. Overexposure to UVA radiation has been linked to the development of certain types of cataracts.
UV rays can cause photokeratitis, which is a painful inflammation of the cornea. From there, “snow blindness” (severe photokeratitis) can form and cause temporary vision loss that will usually last between 24-48 hours. All of this can happen when your trusty UV protective sunglasses are not by your side.
The importance of sunglasses can’t be stressed enough. At our clinic, we carry prescription sunglasses available in many different designs and colours, allowing for a personalized pair. Prescription sunglasses are available for almost all corrective prescriptions with several options including bifocals and progressive lenses. If you spend a lot of time outdoors or behind the wheel, having a pair of prescription sunglasses will make outdoor activities much easier and safer for your eyes. We also offer non-prescription sunglasses as well.
Prescription sunglasses are gaining popularity, as more and more people are realizing their benefits and importance. Come into one of our clinics to get fitted for a pair today. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your eyes.
