The sun is dangerous, and it can damage your eyes. In fact, ultraviolet rays can cause cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygium, and glaucoma. Sunglasses can prevent these issues and keep your eyes safe during the healing process.
UV Rays Can Cause Cataracts
According to new research, chronic exposure to UV rays may increase your risk of developing cataracts. Cataracts are cloudy spots on the eye lens, progressively deteriorating over time, and can lead to total blindness if left untreated. Cataracts typically develop in older people and are caused by the damage that UV rays cause to the skin.
Scientists are not exactly sure how UV light affects lens cells, but they do know that UV light can trigger damage to proteins inside the lens. This damage is linked to oxidative stress, which damages lens proteins. The resulting accumulation of damaged proteins leads to the development of cataracts.
Macular Degeneration
The sun’s ultraviolet rays cause damage to the retina and eye lenses. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of these rays will protect your eyes and keep them healthy. They should also be polarized to reduce glare. Using a hat and sunglasses at the same time during high exposure to the sun will also help protect your eyes.
If you’re prone to macular degeneration, you may need to wear special sunglasses to protect your eyes. The lenses are made of a particular type of plastic called polycarbonate, which makes them lightweight and thin. They’re also designed to be comfortable and stylish, as they fit over prescription eyeglasses. These glasses can also be tinted to block out blue light and improve your vision.
Pterygium
Pterygium is a common skin condition caused by exposure to ultraviolet light. People who spend a lot of time outside in hot weather are particularly susceptible to the condition. It’s also more common in men than in women and is often linked to exposure to the sun during childhood and adolescence. Pterygium is often caused by a combination of factors.
If you suspect that you may have a pterygium, visit your eye care provider. They can perform an examination and prescribe steroid eye drops or artificial tears to relieve your discomfort. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the pterygium completely. However, this is only an option if it becomes too severe or impedes your vision.
Glaucoma
People with glaucoma are especially sensitive to light. Their symptoms can be worsened by bright lights and other bright surfaces, as well as by the medications they take to treat glaucoma. The condition can also be made worse by UV rays, damaging the surface and inner structures of the eyes. This damage can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. It can also cause a person’s vision to become blurry, so wearing sunglasses is essential.
To protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays, you should wear sunglasses that are wrapped around your face. These are especially effective for driving, as they reduce glare and provide extra protection. You can also buy photochromic sunglasses that darken in bright light and lighten in low light. These glasses can help slow the progression of glaucoma and relieve discomfort caused by light sensitivity.
Pterygium Causes Pink Eye
Pterygium is a common eye condition caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light. This disease is more common in desert and tropical regions. It’s also common among people who work outdoors. The most effective way to protect your eyes from this ailment is to wear sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. You should also choose wrap-around styles as they offer better protection than those with smaller frames.
The exact cause of pterygium is unknown, but researchers believe that ultraviolet light and exposure to dusty or sandy conditions may play a role. People who spend a lot of time outdoors are at higher risk, as is anyone who doesn’t wear sunglasses. It’s also thought that exposure to UV radiation may affect certain genes. And age is also a risk factor for developing pterygium, with up to 12% of men over 60 in Australia suffering from it. Various factors are likely to be responsible for this condition, so a visit to an eye doctor is necessary to determine if you are at risk.
Macular Degeneration Causes Vision Loss
Macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that causes vision loss and can be treated. There are several different types of treatments, including medication and surgical procedures. The goal is to slow the progression of the disease and improve vision. Patients may require several treatments to see the best results. Treatment can include proper eye care and a healthy diet.
Age is the main risk factor for developing AMD. This condition usually appears after age 50, and the incidence rises dramatically after age 75. Other risk factors include high blood pressure and smoking. Those with a family history of macular degeneration are also at greater risk. Exposure to too much light can also increase the risk of developing the condition. In the early stages of AMD, symptoms may not be noticeable, and patients may experience vision loss in one or both eyes.
