Preserving your vision is an essential part of long-term wellness. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are one of the most serious and overlooked threats to vision, which is why the staff at Northern Lights Eye Care in Anchorage, AK, want to share several tips to protect your eyes from them. These should go hand in hand with regular visits to your eye doctor to ensure you’re avoiding any problems with your vision in the future.

3 Tips for Protecting Your Eyes From UV Rays

1. Wear UV-Blocking Sunglasses

When you’re outside, you’re constantly exposed to UV rays. These pose a threat throughout the year and in any weather, including snow and cloud cover. UV rays can cause multiple forms of eye disease, including cataracts and cancer, which is why you should wear sunglasses when you’re outside for extended periods of time. Speak with your eye doctor about approved lens models, especially if you need prescription sunglasses.

2. Wear a Hat

Wide-brimmed hats, specially designed to keep the sun out of your eyes, are a great defensive barrier to use alongside UV-blocking glasses. While you don’t need to wear one constantly, you should use them at places like the beach, park, and snow-covered areas where you’re susceptible to extreme levels of UV rays. This will have a significant impact on preserving your vision and is an especially important practice for children, as they’re more susceptible to retinal damage.

3. Pay Attention to UV Alerts

The UV Index varies each day, which is why you should check updates from the Environmental Protection Agency before going outside. On “very high” or “extreme” days with a rating above 8, it’s best to minimize time spent outdoors, specifically between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. If you need to go outside, try to stay in shaded areas and make sure to wear a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

If you’re looking for reliable vision care services for you and your family, turn to an eye doctor at Northern Lights Eye Care. They are dedicated to ensuring patients sustain healthy vision and offer a variety of eyewear services. Call (907) 276-3937 today to schedule your annual exam with an eye doctor, and visit their website and Facebook page to learn more about their services.