Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey

Michigan's Leading Eye Care Physicians

UV Protection for Your Eyes

Grosinger Spigelman & Grey UV Protection for Your Eyes

UV rays are more robust in the summer, but you can experience the effects of UV rays on your eyes all year round. Skin safety is at the top of everyone’s mind when it comes to the sun; however, your eyes are vulnerable to UV damage as well.

It is best to start wearing UV eye protection at a young age to prevent damage to the eye’s surface tissues, the cornea, and the lens, but it is never too late to start. Too much UV damage to the eyes can increase your risk of certain eye diseases such as cataracts, eye cancers, growths on the eye, and snow blindness.

By doing simple things like wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about the sun causing damage to your eyes over time.

Here are some tips to keep your eyes safe from UV rays:

  • Wear sunglasses when outside any time of year.
  • During times of exceptionally high UV rays, like midday during the summer, wear a wide-brimmed hat with your sunglasses for extra protection.
  • Don’t look directly at the sun.
  • Remember that clouds do not protect against UV rays, so wear your eye protection even on cloudy days.
  • Avoid tanning beds; as artificial UV rays are just as damaging as the sun.

If you have any questions about UV safety for your eyes, talk to your eye doctor for expert advice on your specific situation.

Be Cool, Wear Shades: Protect Your Vision and Look Good Doing It

Be Cool

Sunglasses look cool. They come in numerous styles that it is easy to find a pair you love. There are classic cat’s eye and aviator frames as well as oval, rectangle, shield, and rimless designs. The key is finding a pair that offers 100% UVA and UVB protection for your eyes.

What Does the Sun Do to My Eyes?

Many learn at a young age that you are never supposed to look directly into the sun. It can cause damage to your retina that can lead to blindness. Even if you never stare into our favorite star, you can still be at risk for eye damage if you don’t wear sunglasses.

According to the National Eye Institute, approximately 20% of cataracts are caused by extended UV exposure. It can also worsen the symptoms of glaucoma.

Macular Degeneration causes a part of the retina, known as the macula, to deteriorate. This will impair vision and eventually lead to blindness. The U.S. National Library of Medicine published a study that found exposure to certain types of UV radiation can speed up macular degeneration.

Remember that you can experience sun damage on cloudy days. UV rays can pass through clouds, so you should still wear protection when it is overcast outside.

Finding the Right Sunglasses for Your Eyes

It is important to find the right type of sunglasses for your eyes so you will wear them and achieve the highest benefits. For example, surfers often wear wraparound shades for better sunlight protection next to the water. You may need something with a sturdy frame if you are playing a sport or working outdoors. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey today if you need a comprehensive eye exam before purchasing new prescription sunglasses.

6 Tips for Sunlight Protection During UV Safety Month

Eye Michigan UV Safety Month July 2018

The sun brings us many wonderful things. It keeps us warm, brightens our days, and allows things to grow. Unfortunately, it can be harmful if you get too much of it. The following tips will help you protect yourself during UV safety month.

  • UV Protection Tip 1: Always Wear SPF Sunscreen

Always wear sunscreen that comes with SPF protection. The label should read SPF 30 and also say “broad-spectrum” to prevent damage. The term means that the product protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outdoors and again once every 80 minutes. Apply more often when swimming or sweating.

  • UV Protection Tip 2: Clothing and Accessories Can Protect You

Clothing and accessories can also block UV rays. Wear long sleeves or pants when it is comfortable to do so. Wide-brimmed hats will help shield your eyes and face.

  • UV Protection Tip 3: Work Around Peak Sunlight Hours

The most intense sunlight hours of the day are between 10 am and 2 pm. Avoid spending excessive time outdoors during this period. If you need to be outside, make sure you wear sunscreen and anything else you need to prevent damage.

  • UV Protection Tip 4: Put on a Pair of Sunglasses

Wear sunglasses with total UV protection. The label should specifically mention this to ensure that they are strong enough to do the job. Avoid staring up at the sky while the sun is up, even if you are wearing sunglasses.

  • UV Protection Tip 5: Wear Cosmetics with UV Protection

Some cosmetics include built-in UV protection. These are great for helping protect skin while going about your day. You may still come in contact with sunlight when driving or spending a few minutes outside on your lunch break.

  • UV Protection Tip 6: Be Careful Even If It Is Cloudy

UV rays are not blocked by clouds. Even if it is overcast outside, continue to protect yourself. Skin and eyes can become damaged if you aren’t careful about sunlight.

Your ophthalmologist can help you learn more about sunlight safety and your vision. Contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey Michigan’s Leading Eye Care Physicians located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan to schedule an appointment.

Protect Your Eyes All Year Round

Eye Michigan Protect Your Eyes

Sunglasses provide your eyes protection from harmful UV rays in all seasons. UV light can harm your retina and cause cataracts. When purchasing sunglasses it is imperative that they block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. It is also important that they fit your face properly, not just for comfort, but so that UV rays do not slip through the open spaces and reach your eyes.

UV LIGHT EXPOSURE

uv light exposure eye michigan

UV light exposure symptoms may not begin for 6 to 12 hours after exposure to ultraviolet light and can result in serious eye injury. Some UV exposed patients feel that there is something in their eye, have watering of the eye and/or sensitivity to light. Help keep your UV exposure to a minimum and protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that filter the ultraviolet (UV) light.

Call Now
Directions