Protect Your Eyes From The Sun
Did you know that, just like our skin, our eyes can just as easily be damaged from the sun? So next time you step outside, you may want to grab your sunglasses.
Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, UV-A and UV-B, can damage the surface of your eyes, especially if you stare directly into the sun. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the American Optometric Association (AOA), you're not just at risk during the summer season. Surfaces like sand and water reflect UV rays, that's a given during the summer. But do you ever wonder why you have to squint while driving through the snow on a sunny winter day? That is because other surfaces like snow and concrete also reflect UV rays.
The easiest way to detect UV rays is to check your shadow. If your shadow is shorter, the
Other factors that affect UV radiation would be time of day as well as how close you are to the equator.
The next time you buy a new pair of shades, check to make sure they block 99 to 100 percent UV radiation to provide optimum sun protection.
Do you have additional questions about sun safety or other eye concerns? LifeBridge Health's Krieger Eye Institute offers comprehensive ophthalmology care, ranging from routine eye exams to complex surgical procedures. For more information, visit the website or call 410-601-2020.