Choosing Sunglasses That Are Both Cool and Smart
By Gina White; updates by Dr. Gary Heiting
While it can be fun to try on the latest sunglasses, you should remember that they aren't a mere fashion accessory. In fact, you should wear
sunglasses every day. Why? When you are young, you spend more time outdoors than the typical adult. This means your eyes are exposed to
more ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.
We all know that too much exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn. But sun exposure also can contribute to a number of serious eye
problems that may not become apparent until you are much older.
The Evils Under the Sun
Many studies suggest that UV rays cause cataracts.
In one study of 838 fishermen, researchers concluded that individuals who did not wear sunglasses or brimmed hats had three times as many
cataracts as those who did.*
UV radiation from sunlight also can damage the cornea.
Even your eyelids are at risk because the delicate tissues around the eyes are more susceptible to UV-related skin cancer than other areas
of the body. And some research suggests UV rays may also contribute to the development of pterygia, which are
fibrous growths on the eye's conjunctiva that can invade
the cornea and distort vision.
 |
Choose sunglasses that block at least 90 percent of ultraviolet rays. Click on photo to see close-ups and style
names for all sunglasses. | |
Some eye specialists are also concerned about short-wavelength visible light (sometimes called "blue light"), another component
of sunlight. Blue light is similar to UV, but with slightly less energy. Long-term exposure to blue light may
contribute to macular degeneration, the most common cause of vision loss in people over age 55.
Some situations will subject your eyes to more UV rays than others. Your eyes need extra protection during the summer,
particularly at midday when UV rays are most intense. Also, be extra careful if you are vacationing in the Caribbean (and other tropical areas) or if
you're skiing or mountain climbing. UV rays are more intense the closer you are to the earth's equator and the higher you go in altitute.
Tanning lamps also subject
your body to high doses of UV radiation. Be sure
to use the protective eyewear that the
salon provides. Regular sunglasses don't provide adequate protection from the intense light and
multi-directional UV rays in tanning booths.
Also, be aware that sunlight and UV rays "bounce" off reflective surfaces. Water is particularly reflective, so always wear
sunglasses when you're boating or at the beach.
Other surfaces that reflect high amounts of UV rays include snow, sand (making beaches
a double whammy), concrete, roadways, and glass.
Finally, many medications can make you extra sensitive to sunlight. Examples include antibiotics, antihistamines, sulfa drugs,
some antidepressants, and birth control pills.
|