Health

Sun Exposure and the Need for UV Eye Protection in Relation to Eye Health

UV Eye Protection: Your First Defense Against Sun-Induced Eye Damage

The Critical Role of UV Eye Protection in Safeguarding Vision

UV eye protection is just as essential as sunscreen when stepping outdoors. We frequently grab a wide-brimmed hat, put on full-sleeved clothes and apply sunscreen in an effort to protect our health before venturing outside. The majority of people are unaware however that eye protection from UV radiation is just as important as skin protection – and frequently far more overlooked. 

Being Aware of UV Radiations Effects on Eye Health

Sunlight contains three different types of ultraviolet radiation: UV-C (100–280 nm) UV-B (280–315 nm) and UV-A (315–380 nm). The Earth’s atmosphere fortunately absorbs most UV-C radiation. However the majority of UV-induced eye damage is caused by UV-B and UV-A rays which are present in our daily environment. 

Daily repercussions of this. High-energy UV-B rays harm the cornea and lens of the eye. Chronic exposure has been associated with cataracts which cloud the lens and cause vision impairment. Macular degeneration, a major contributor to irreversible vision loss in older adults is increased by UV-A rays deeper penetration into the retina. Photokeratitis is an uncomfortable condition akin to sunburn but affecting the eye can result from even brief unprotected exposure. 

Understand Your Sunwear According to the Data

The amount of visible light that sunglasses let through determines their classification according to recent industry insights. Their efficacy in diverse settings is directly impacted by this classification. 

Category 0 lenses are only appropriate for use in low light or for fashion letting in 80–100% of visible light. 

Category 1 lenses work well in cloudy conditions and let in 43–80%. 

Higher categories – which are not specified in the shared data – are better suited for locations with high levels of glare such as roads, mountains and beaches. 

However UV filtration is more important than lens darkness. The dangers of darker lenses without UV filters are often unknown to consumers. In low light they cause the pupils to dilate which paradoxically allows more damaging UV rays to enter. The term 100 percent UV protection or UV400 should be used to identify eyewear that blocks UV-A and UV-B rays up to 400 nm. 

Read More : How Yoga Can Help Reduce Stress Every Day: Simple Pose Ideas And Mind-Soothing Advice?

Youngsters and Senior Citizens are More Vulnerable

The eyes of children are particularly delicate. Their pupils are broader and their lenses are clearer which lets in more UV light. Ocular structures naturally deteriorate in older adults and cumulative UV exposure can hasten the onset of degenerative conditions. 

It’s a common misconception that UV damage only occurs on sunny days or during certain seasons. It is a myth. Because UV rays can pass through clouds, exposure can be increased by reflection from objects like concrete water and snow.

Read More : Learn About the Origins of International Yoga Day it’s First Celebration and It’s Two Guinness World Records

The Doctors Recommendation is to Wear Sunglasses Every Day

Like sunscreen, sunglasses should be worn every day, not just in the summer. UV rays are present when you drive, walk to a shop or even just sit by a window on a sunny day. As part of corrective eyewear UV-protective lenses are available for people who wear prescription glasses. 

Long-term eye health is more important than comfort or glare avoidance when it comes to eye protection. The best time to start protecting your eyes is now regardless of your age. We need to normalize wearing certified UV-protective eyewear in the same way that we normalize wearing SPF particularly in a nation like India where sunlight is plentiful virtually all year round. 

Purchase premium lenses and have them fitted by a qualified optician for healthy eyes. 

Our eyes are not naturally protected from UV radiation. The damage is gradually silent and frequently only becomes noticeable after vision loss starts. However prevention is easy and reasonably priced. 

Stop waiting for symptoms. Don’t settle for just fashionable eyewear. Make UV eye protection a must for your everyday health regimen and opt for sunglasses with medical certification.

We’re now on WhatsApp. Click to join

Like this post?
Register at One World News to never miss out on videos, celeb interviews, and best reads.

Back to top button