How to Avoid Eye Damage From Sun Exposure

The arrival of the sun and summer is just around the corner. The sun has various advantages, including a tan, elevating mood, and strengthening your immune system. Nonetheless, shielding your eyes from the sun's hazardous rays is essential. Reviewing a few quick suggestions for preventing sun damage to the eyes would be beneficial.

Wear Sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses is one of the best ways to shield your eyes from the sun. But not every pair of sunglasses is equal. When choosing a pair, look for sunglasses blocking at least 99% of UVA and UVB. Also, polarized lenses are beneficial, reducing glare and improving visual clarity. 

Additionally, choose sunglasses that fit well and cover your entire eye area, including your eyelids. Quality sunglasses are worth the investment to shield your eyes from harmful rays.

Wear a Hat

Another excellent method to shield your eyes from the sun is to wear a hat. This will also shield your face, neck, and ears. Doing this can significantly lessen the amount of UV radiation reaching your eyes. Hats with a brim that is at least three inches wide offer the best protection. A hat can help prevent face and neck sunburn if you will be outside for a while.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

From 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the sun's rays are at their most intense. If possible, avoid being outside during these peak hours. If you must be outside, seek out shade or create your shade with a canopy, umbrella, or tent. By taking these steps, you can lessen UV rays' damage to your eyes and skin.

Protect Your Eyes While Driving

Exposure to the sun's rays while driving can be just as hazardous as being outside. Use sunglasses and block the sun's rays with your car's sun visors to protect your eyes while driving. Consider tinting the windows to limit the UV radiation entering your vehicle. But before doing so, make sure you research your state's regulations on window tinting.

Use Eye Protection

Use eye protection to engage in outside activities like riding, hiking, or playing sports. Sports goggles with polycarbonate lenses provide excellent protection from both UV rays and impact. Be sure to choose goggles that fit well and are comfortable to wear. Avoid wearing regular glasses during these activities, as they can shatter upon impact and cause eye injury.

Be Aware of Medication Side Effects

Tetracycline, sulfa medicines, and birth control pills are examples of drugs that can increase your eyes' sensitivity to sunlight. Check the label on your medications and heed all instructions if you intend to spend time outside. If unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist if your medicine has any adverse effects that could cause sun sensitivity.

Take Care of Your Eyes

Taking proper care of your eyes is crucial to preventing sun damage. A balanced diet rich in veggies and fruits can help protect your eyes from the inside out. A healthy weight, quitting smoking, and routine eye exams can also aid early detection and treatment of eye conditions.

Conclusion

Maintaining excellent eye health requires shielding your eyes from the sun's damaging rays. Following the above-described steps, you can considerably lower your risk of acquiring eye issues caused by sun exposure.

For more on eye damage, visit Brandon Eyes at our Middleton or Madison, Wisconsin office. Call (608) 833-7256 or (608) 833-0301 to schedule an appointment today.