As we know, ultraviolet radiation which comes from the sun are harmful to our eyes. But many peoples are less aware of the effects the sun have on our eyes.
There are basically two types of uv radiation: UVA and UVB, which we need to protect. UVA rays are not filtered and cause the most damage to the vision health according to the WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION, as its penetrates to the deeper layers causing damage to the macular causing MACULAR DEGENERATION. While UVB harm the superficial parts of the eye causing damage to the lid, cornea as well as lens, which caused like cataract, pterygium, eyelid cancer, photo keratitis etc.
With increased level of UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, it is important to take the necessary precautions to protect our eyes.
- SUNGLASSES– wearing of sunglasses whenever we are out in the sun protects our eyes from sun damage which can cause anytime of the year. If possible the lens should also have anti-reflective coating, UV coating, polarising film, scratch resistant coating, and mirror coating for the safeguarding of our vision.
And also choose shades that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB light.
- Wearing of a broad – brimmed hats with no holes on it, protects our face and top of our head. Used hat because it can block as much as half of all uv rays from our eyes and eyelid.
- Used of sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to protect ourselves when we need to take off our shades.
- Don’t get fools by clouds, as the sun rays can pass through haze and clouds. So protection to our eye is important even when there is cloud cover.
- Most of the sun’s rays reflect off form the water, snow and sand surfaces, so extra care is to be taken.
- Seek for shady places whenever possible, especially during times when the sun is most intense.