How to Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays This Summer!

July is designated as UV Awareness Month!

Summer is in full swing, bringing beautiful warm sunny days to the islands. And while many of us this summer are off exploring through hikes and day trips or cooling off in the ocean of course, make sure to keep your eyes and vision protected! There are some unique health risks to living in this climate including exposure to UV light which can be damaging to both the skin and to our eyes. The more time we spend in the sun, the more we are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, and the further it may affect our eyes.

UV damage to the eyes often goes unnoticed but can accumulate over time. Prolonged and intensified exposure to UV light, can cause severe radiation eye injuries, and even lead to serious eye diseases, especially for individuals of fair complexion and/or using photosynthesizing drugs. The most common eye damage by UV’s are cataracts, macular degeneration, skin cancer around the eyes, and pterygium, most commonly known as surfer’s eye—an unpleasant, noncancerous growth on the eye’s surface.

Oftentimes, many people also overlook the eye safety risks that come from water and outdoor sports. Water, sand, and pavement also creates a reflective surface for ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and can cause photokeratitis, or UV keratitis, which is when the cornea is sunburned and becomes inflamed. If you are going to be outside hiking for a couple of hours, or taking advantage of the summer swells, please remember you will be in an environment that reflects and amplifies UV rays, so it is crucial that you protect your eyes.

Whatever your summer adventures hold, here are some helpful tips on how to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays:
• Never stare directly at the sun! This may burn the front of the eye, along with the retina which may lead to irreversible vision loss in your central vision or the appearance of dark spots in your vision.
• The best way to prevent eye damage from the sun is by wearing sunglasses. No matter the style or cost, choose sunglasses labeled “100% protection” or “UV 400.” Wrap-around sunglasses that extend around the temples offer the best protection but always at least choose the UV protection.
• Wearing a wide brim hat will also help to shade your eyes and face from harsh sunlight and UV damage.
• Consider either staying indoors or avoiding prolonged sun exposure when the sun’s UV rays are at their peak. UV radiation is especially severe from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and can burn the surface of the eyes directly or indirectly from reflections of various types of surfaces.

By adding these preventative measures to your daily routine and maintaining comprehensive eye exams you can keep your vision clear and protected! Visit Hawaiian Eye Center and care for your eyes! Learn more or schedule an appointment at: www.hawaiianeye.com.