Millions of Americans suffer from age-related eye diseases, with the number increasing every year as the baby boomer generation continues to grow older. Conditions such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma are affecting more Americans than ever.
There are many preventative measures that both young and old can do to help protect their eyes and keep them seeing for years to come.
Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses are much more than a stylish accessory; they are protective barriers that block the eyes from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. The best way to protect your eyes while enjoying the outdoors is to wear sunglasses, though not all sunglasses block both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
It is important to look for sunglasses that block 100 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays. The sun’s rays speed up the development of cataracts, an age-related clouding of the lens that negatively affects vision. Frames with a close-fitting, wraparound style provide the best protection because they limit the stray sunlight that reaches your eyes. Performance sunglasses or sport sunglasses can also do the trick.
UV Risk Factors
Anyone who spends time outside is at risk for eye problems with UV radiation. Risk of eye damage from UV rays change depending on different factors.
• Geographic Location – UV levels are higher in areas near the equator. The farther you are from the equator, the smaller the risk. For example, there is a higher risk of UV damage in South America than in Canada.
• Altitude – UV levels are greater at high altitudes.
•Time of Day – UV levels are greater when the sun is high, usually from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Settings – UV levels are higher in open spaces, especially when surrounded by reflective surfaces such as snow or sand. UV rays are nearly double when reflected off of snow.
•Medications – Certain medications such as birth control pills, sulfa drugs, and tetracycline can increase the body’s sensitivity to UV radiation.
Never Stare Directly Into Sunlight
Not looking into the sun seems pretty self-explanatory; however, this can be a common practice, especially in children. People who have frequent or excessive exposure to direct sunlight have a greater risk of developing growths on the surface of the eye and macular degeneration. It can also lead to serious damage to the cornea and retina, causing permanent vision loss.
Resources on Easy Ways to Protect Your Eyes
- All About Vision: “Eight Ways to Protect Your Eyes”
- CBS News: “Five Ways to Protect Your Eyes”
- WebMd: Ways to Protect Your Vision