July is UV safety month and about more than just fireworks and cookouts. The United States Department of Health and Human Services has also named July Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Month. While Americans will spend hours applying sunscreen and picking out the perfect outerwear to protect skin from the sun’s harmful rays, many of us will fail to take the necessary steps to protect our eyes from damage.
The UVA and UVB rays emitted from the sun are a form of radiation. Radiation is any emission of energy and the sun’s damaging UV rays are specifically a form of electromagnetic radiation. Using the term radiation helps us understand that exposing our eyes to sunlight is much more serious than we think. Just like that metal covering we put on when getting x-rays to avoid exposure to radiation from the machine, we should consider protection from the sun as well.
Research is revealing that frequent and long-term exposure to the sun’s UV rays can contribute to the formation of cataracts. Cataracts occur when the lens surrounding your eye becomes clouded and remains the most common cause of blindness. Overexposure to sunlight can also play a role in macular degeneration; which can also result in loss of sight.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends shielding our eyes by wearing sunglasses that block 100% of the UVA and UVB rays for optimum UV safety. When you are choosing your next pair of shades, don’t choose on fashion alone. Make sure they also meet this requirement. Wearing a broad brimmed hat will also help guard your eyes from damage caused by exposure to UV radiation.
While most of us will spend time at the beach or the park during the summer months, there are other sources of radiation we need to be aware of as well. Tanning beds are another source of harmful electromagnetic radiation that can be damaging to our eyes. For those who use this method for keeping that tanned look year-round, don’t skimp on the tanning goggles and make sure they meet the necessary recommendations as well.
When considering how to best protect your eyes from getting sunburned and maintaining overall eye health, contact a doctor at a specialty eye care center like Palmetto Eye & Laser. Call Palmetto Eye & Laser Center today at 864-583-6381 or use our online contact form to request more information or make an appointment.
