While sunlight is a beautiful thing, too much of anything can be harmful. Sunglasses can prevent sun damage to the eyes, improve vision and make a unique fashion statement.
Much like our skin becomes sunburn, overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet, or UV radiation can cause a variety of eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, non-cancerous growths on the surface of the eye and even cancer of the eye and eyelids.
To protect your eyes and your vision, it is important to wear sunglasses when outside enjoying the sunshine. Ask your eye care professional to make sure your sunglasses provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Sunglasses are available with or without a prescription and are often available with polarized lenses. Light reflected from surfaces such as a flat road or smooth water generally is horizontally polarized. Polarized lenses contain a special filter that blocks this type of intense reflected light, reducing glare for your eyes.
Polarized lenses have been popular for years with boaters and fishermen who need to reduce reflected glare from the water surrounding them. Outdoor enthusiasts who have also benefited the most from polarized lenses include skiers, bikers, golfers and joggers, all who may enjoy a clearer view along with elimination of glare.
Ask Dr. Palmer to make sure your sunglasses provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays.