Summer just wouldn’t be summer without spending some time in the sun, but without precaution and protection, summer's warm rays can be harmful to your eyes.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) warns outdoor enthusiasts about photokeratitis – an eye condition much like sunburn to the skin. The symptoms cause the eyes to get red, tear excessively and have an uncomfortable sensation like that of something being in the eye. Photokeratitis is temporary and rarely causes permanent damage.
Long-term sun exposure can, however, cause more serious damage. Exposing eyes to the sun in small amounts over a period of years can increase the chances of developing cataracts and damage to the retina. These conditions are irreversible.
It is especially important for children, who may spend much of their summer vacation outdoors, to wear eye protection. Even the very young should have eye protection when outdoors.
Wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat or cap are excellent prescriptions for protecting one’s eyes while soaking up the sunshine. AOA recommends that to be effective, sunglasses must:
* block out 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation;
* screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light; and
* be perfectly matched in color and free of distortion and imperfection.
Neutral gray lenses are the best for maintaining color perception.
Consumers should look for lenses that have been awarded the AOA Seal of Acceptance for Ultraviolet Absorbers/Blockers, providing substantial protection of the eye from naturally occurring environmental UV radiation.
The sun doesn't have to take the fun out of summer – just make sure your eyes and skin stay protected. - ARA
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