Most people are aware of the damaging effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays and the effect on their exposed and unprotected skin. It is important to know that it is also necessary to protect your eyes from the same ultraviolet rays. There are links between eye damage and extended exposure to ultraviolet rays. Macular degeneration, cataracts, pterygia, and pingueculae are examples of some eye problems that can develop as a result of failing to protect your eyes. If your eyes are exposed to a high dose of ultraviolet waves in a short period of time, a temporary condition called photokeratitis can occur. This condition can cause blindness that usually lasts one or two days. This condition is better known as “snow blindness”. There are a few steps that you can take to help protect your eyes from the damage that ultraviolet rays can cause.
Ultraviolet Ray Glass
1. Sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays are the best option to protect your eyes from damage. The best choice is to find a pair that blocks 100 percent of the rays. The Federal Drug Administration recommends that sunglasses should block 99 or 100 percent of ultraviolet rays. Sunglasses that meet these standards will have a label which states 100% UVA protection or it will say “UV400″. A higher price tag does not necessarily mean greater protection. The color of the lenses is also not a true test of protection. If you are in doubt about the ratings of your sunglasses, many eye doctors and opticians have machines can test them for you.

2. Sunglasses should always be worn when you are outdoors. There is a misconception that you are safe from ultraviolet exposure on a cloudy day. Although shade can reduce the exposure, it does not eliminate the risks. Ultraviolet rays are invisible and can penetrate clouds. Snow blindness can even occur on a cloudy day.

3. Snowy days are a crucial time to protect against eye damage. Your exposure can be doubled because snow reflects 80% of the ultraviolet rays. Sunglasses with larger lenses and a tighter fit around the face can provide even more protection.

4. If you have contact lenses that are able to block ultraviolet rays, you still need sunglasses to protect the other parts of your eyes that may be vulnerable. Large brim hats can block some rays from your eyes, but not as effectively as sunglasses.

5. It is very important to protect children’s eyes from damaging rays. Experts state that by the time we are 18, we have been exposed to 80% of our lifetime exposure. Since children spend so much time outdoors, they should be protected with sunglasses. Their sunglasses should also block 100% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. There are models available that are made of rubber and have unbreakable lenses to ensure safety.