When summer arrives, most of us remember to apply sunscreen to protect our skin from painful burns. However, we often forget that the same summer sunshine can cause quiet, cumulative damage to our eyes. Taking proactive steps now can protect your vision for years to come.
At Wide Eye Optometry, our experienced optometrists Mary Demirjian, OD, and Robert Brill, OD, help families protect their vision throughout the year. Our team provides comprehensive eye exams and personalized, convenient care from three office locations in Encino, Santa Clarita, and Palmdale, California.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a constant threat to your ocular health, or the physical well-being of your eyes. Over time, unprotected exposure can lead to serious, irreversible conditions that permanently affect how you see. These changes often develop slowly without any early pain or warning signs.
For instance, up to 10% of cataract cases globally may be directly linked to UV exposure. Additionally, long-term sun exposure is a major risk factor for ocular cancers: About 3,200 people in the United States are diagnosed with cancers of the eye and eye socket each year.
Protecting your eyes requires more than just grabbing any dark pair of sunglasses from a local store. You need to ensure your eyewear actually blocks the harmful rays that cause cellular damage. Dark lenses without proper protection can actually cause your pupils to dilate, letting in more harmful light.
When shopping for new glasses or sunglasses, choose lenses that offer 100% UV or UV400 protection. This rating ensures the lenses block both UV-A and UV-B rays, keeping your eyes safe even on the brightest days.
You can also pair your sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat to block overhead rays. This simple combination shades your eyes and the delicate skin around your eyelids where skin cancer can easily develop.
Many people believe they only need eye protection when the sun is actively shining on a clear day. This is a dangerous misconception that can lead to unexpected UV damage over time.
In reality, ultraviolet rays easily penetrate cloud cover, meaning your eyes are still at risk on overcast days. Wearing your protective eyewear during all daylight hours is the best way to safeguard your vision year-round, regardless of the weather forecast.
Keeping your eyes safe this summer starts with the right habits and the right prescription. If you're ready to upgrade your sun protection or need to check on your eye health, Wide Eye Optometry is here to help. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment at our Encino, Santa Clarita, or Palmdale, California, location.