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HERE ARE THE
UV FACTS...
Short term exposure
to
excessive UV radiation can cause a condition called photokeratitis, resulting in
temporary loss of vision. Fortunately, like a sunburn, it is usually temporary
and in most cases does not cause permanent damage to the eye.
Longer term exposure can have
more serious consequences. Laboratory studies have shown that UV radiation is a
contributing cause of cataracts. Chronic UV exposure may also contribute to a
disease called macular degeneration by contributing to the aging processes in
the retina.
The risk from UV exposure is highest
between 10am and 3pm. During summer months, when the sun is most direct, exposure risk increases. In addition, the risk is higher when on the
beach, on the water, or on the slopes, due to reflections from the sand, water,
and snow.
Although everyone is at risk, some
individuals should take extra precautions. People who have had cataract surgery
are at increased risk of retinal injury from sun exposure because the human lens
absorbs UV radiation. Most lenses inserted during surgery will provide some UV
protection but additional protection is still recommended. Many
prescription or over-the-counter medications can increase your sensitivity to UV
radiation. Check with your eye care doctor, primary care physician, or
pharmacist to find out more.
Children usually spend more time
outdoors than adults, so it is important that their eyes are properly protected
from the sun's radiation. The combination of a hat and sunglasses will offer the
best solution. Children's sunglasses should have lenses made of plastic
(preferably polycarbonate), not glass, for added impact protection.
To provide protection for your eyes,
you need to find sunglasses that block 99-100% of UV-A and UV-B. The best lens
color choices are gray, green, or brown.
Polarized lenses block reflected
light, and are good for boating, driving, and outdoor sports.
Photochromic lenses adjust their darkness when the intensity of UV light
changes.
Contact lenses are now available
with a UV-blocking feature, however, they absorb less than the recommended
99-100% of UV-A and UV-B radiation. These should still be worn with sunglasses
outside to provide additional protection.
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