July Is UV Safety Month: 3 Ways to Improve and Preserve Your Eye Health
Submitted by Elman Retina Group on June 27, 2022
Summer is here! That means it’s a great time to be active and outdoors. It’s also a great time to shine light on July as UV Safety Month.
The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. When you are exposed to the sun, your eyes are exposed to the sun’s UV rays. Over time, exposure to UV rays can harm your eye health. UV exposure has been linked to a number of eye conditions including macular degeneration and cataracts.
Elman Retina Group’s Dr. Michael Elman and Dr. Sidney “Sid” Schechet are here to help. Below, our doctors will discuss UV safety and suggest three ways to improve and preserve your eye health.
1. Wear Eye Protection
You probably know the importance of wearing sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. But do you know the importance of wearing protection for your eyes? One of the best ways to preserve your eye health is by wearing sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes.
When it comes to sunglasses, it’s important to choose the right pair of sunglasses for the job. You need to make sure that the sunglasses you are wearing offer both UVA and UVB protection. To confirm that your sunglasses are offering you the best protection, check the label. Your sunglasses offer adequate protection if the label says that the sunglasses provide either “UV400” protection or “100% protection against both UVA and UVB.” Wraparound or oversized styles may offer additional protection to your eyes from the top and the sides.
Sunglasses are not the only way to protect your eyes. You can add an additional layer of protection by wearing a hat because a hat can help to block UV rays from reaching your eyes. An oversized hat with a wide brim offers optimal protection.
2. Stay in the Shade
The best way to avoid the sun’s harmful UV rays is to avoid the sun and stay in the shade. Even on overcast or cloudy days, you are still at risk for UV exposure. If you must go in the sun, try to avoid doing it during peak hours. The sun’s UV rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If you must go outside during peak hours, wear protection.
3. Schedule an Eye Exam
Regular eye exams are the best way to improve and preserve your eye health. During your eye exam, your doctor can check for signs of damage or disease related to UV exposure. Many diseases can be slowed or treated if caught early in their progression. Your doctor can also recommend the best sunglasses to meet your lifestyle needs.
Contact Elman Retina Group
Our doctors at Elman Retina Group are happy to meet with you to discuss additional ways to improve and preserve your eye health. Schedule an appointment with us today by calling or emailing our office.
