Your eyes can be damaged by the UV rays of the sun, causing conditions that have to be treated by an optometrist. Lack of proper UV eye protection can lead to conditions like cataracts, cancer, growths, and snow blindness. Even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms right now, you can often prevent them by using proper UV protection. Below are a few tips to help you protect your eyes and impress your optometrist at your next appointment.

Do:

Wear sunglasses outdoors.

Find a pair of sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays for sufficient eye protection every time you’re outside. Your eyes are susceptible to sun damage in every season, so be sure to wear eye protection year-round. Though the sun is further away in winter than it is during the summer, it still emits damaging UV rays.

Protect your eyes when it’s cloudy.

Don’t let clouds ease you into a false sense of security. Even when it’s not particularly bright outside, UV rays still reach your eyes because they pass through the water vapor. You should also wear eye protection while driving during the day because even though your car windshield filters out some UV rays, it does not provide adequate protection. Always keep a pair of sunglasses in your car, so you can easily grab them when you buckle up.

Don’t:

Stare directly at the sun.

Even when done for a split second, looking directly at the sun causes permanent damage to your eyes, called solar retinopathy. This is caused by light burning your retina after passing through your eye’s lens, destroying cells that are essential for sight. Though there are no treatments available for solar retinopathy, your optometrist will help you manage pain relief and monitor your condition.

Stare at sunlight reflections.

Known as snow blindness, photokeratitis, or eye damage caused by sunlight, occurs after staring at the sun’s reflection on snow, water, and ice. This causes a mild burn on your cornea and conjunctiva, and it usually resolves without treatment. Your optometrist will recommend techniques for pain relief while it heals, such as eye drops and pain relievers, and they may prescribe antibiotics to keep the wound from becoming infected.

For high-quality, affordable photokeratitis and solar retinopathy treatment and management, visit the 5-star optometrist team at Eye Care Locale in Dayton, OH. Since 2016, they have cared for their patients while maintaining affordability, and they work with Care Source insurance for your convenience. Whether you need glasses, glaucoma screening, or an eye exam, their optometrists will deliver exceptional care in a soothing office. With their broad selection of contacts, glasses, and prescription sunglasses available, you will find the eyewear that speaks to you. Learn how they can enhance your vision on their website, or call (937) 222-2452 to schedule an appointment.