UV ray exposure can damage your eyes four different ways — proper protection is essential

It’s a strange phenomenon…

As we age, our pants seem to get higher and our sunglasses seem to get MUCH bigger.

I’m not sure why the pants thing happens, but it turns out the sunglasses are a great idea — though not much of a fashion statement.

Photokeratitis is sunburn of the cornea. That’s right. Sunburn on the surface of your eye. And a good pair of polarized sunglasses with full coverage is the best way to protect yourself from that.

But there are three more reasons why it’s important to wear polarized sunglasses with proper UV protection. Numbers 2 and 3 you already know about. But what about…

Reason one: pterygium.

When sun exposure repeatedly damages the cornea, scar tissue creates abnormal growth that can block vision. And the most severe pterygium cases require surgery.

Surgery…In. Your. Eye!

Reason two: cataracts.

More than 22 million Americans have cataracts. They’re pretty common. And even though they’re among the easier eye issues to fix, you’re still better off not getting them in the first place. So it’s good to know that you can greatly minimize your risk by limiting UV exposure.

Reason three: macular degeneration.

This is the most common cause of blindness in people 55 and over. When UV exposure damages the retina, deterioration begins at the center of your field of vision and slowly expands.

If you don’t like the chunky frame look in sunglasses, regular sunglasses under a broad brimmed hat will help cut down your risk substantially.

Now…about those pants…

Sources:
“Sunglasses Rival Lotions as Vital for Safety” Dennis Thompson, HealthDay News, healthday.com