The UV rays during the hottest months of the year are not merely irritating to your eyes, they can be downright destructive to them. When summer rolls around, the sun and its rays are literally at their worst, which is why you need to start seeing your sunglasses as more than the perfect complement to your outfit.

Reduce Your Odds

Because your DNA is not quite like the DNA of anyone else, there are few guarantees when it comes to eye-related diseases. However, you’re doing a wealth of good for your eyes when it comes to prevention:

• Cancer: UV protection starts with the tissue-thin skin over your eyes. Your eyelids are difficult to protect with sunblock and yet still susceptible to skin cancer. This cancer can be spread to the rest of the body if it goes undetected for too long. If you’re out in the sun for long periods of time, your sunglasses will do the work that your sunscreen can’t.
• Cataracts: From diabetes to unfortunate genetics, there are a number of reasons why a person might develop cataracts. But one overlooked reason for the formation of cataracts is sun exposure. According to a study that was partially funded by the National Eye Institute, there is evidence to suggest that sunglasses could help prevent this condition. Cataracts may lead to blindness, so everyone should take the precaution of wearing sunglasses (it’s certainly one of the easier measures you can take)!

Cornea and Retina Protection

The retina and the cornea work together to transmit light and shapes to create what you see. The cornea is a membrane and acts as a protector for the retina by filtering everything from light to dust. It is possible for the cornea to develop a sunburn or serious inflammation due to the sun. Keeping UV lights out of the cornea can help it remain strong for the retina. Sunglasses may also be able to stave off macular degeneration to the retina, allowing you to retain your field of vision for as long as possible.

While all sunglasses provide some degree of protection, it’s important to find a pair with the best possible safeguards for you. If you have questions, McPherson Optometry, P.C. may be able to help. Contact us today if you would like to schedule an appointment!