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4 Eye Conditions Linked To Sun Exposure

4 Eye Conditions Linked To Sun Exposure

When summer rolls around, it’s time for long days at the pool, the beach, or out on the trails. But while you’re having fun in the sun, it’s important to take care of your eyes. You see, the sun gives off something called ultraviolet (UV) light, and this light can cause some problems for your eyes.

1. Sunburned Eyes

Yes, you read that right – your eyes can get sunburned too! Imagine the clear, outer layer of your eye, called the cornea, being exposed to sunlight without any protection. This can make your eyes hurt a lot, and it’s called corneal sunburn. People also call it photokeratitis, snow blindness, or welder’s flash. Usually, it goes away on its own in a few days, but if your vision gets blurry or the pain doesn’t stop after two days, it’s important to see a doctor.

2. Getting Older Faster

UV light doesn’t just affect your skin; it also makes you look older faster. The skin around your eyes is pretty delicate, and without protection, it can get sunspots and wrinkles. Plus, when you’re outside without sunglasses, you might squint a lot, which can make those wrinkles even deeper.

3. Weird Growths on Your Eyes

Spending too much time in the sun can cause strange growths on the whites of your eyes, known as pinguecula and pterygia . Don’t worry; these aren’t cancerous, but they can mess with your vision. If one of these growths starts to blur your vision by growing onto your cornea, you might need surgery to remove it. But you can prevent them by wearing sunglasses that block UV rays.

4. Cataracts

Cataracts are like clouds that cover the lens of your eye. They usually happen when you get older, but too much UV light can speed up this process. It’s like the UV light damages your eye’s lens, and proteins start clumping together, causing cataracts.

Read also : How Does Blue Light Impact Your Sleep

Protecting Your Eyes from the Sun: Tips for Safety

Before you head out for fun in the sun, remember these tips to protect your eyes:

  • Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound sunglasses are even better for keeping your eyes safe.
  • Put on a hat with a wide brim to keep the skin around your eyes out of direct sunlight.
  • If possible, stay in the shade, especially on super sunny days.
  • Even when it’s cloudy, UV light can sneak through, so keep wearing your sunglasses.

How We Can Help

At Westpoint Optical, we have lots of cool sunglasses that not only make you look good but also keep your eyes safe. Our friendly staff can help you pick the perfect pair for your style and activities.

If you forget your sunglasses and your eyes start feeling uncomfortable, don’t worry. We can help with that too! Our optometrist will check your eyes and suggest a treatment to make you feel better.

To schedule an eye exam in Brampton West or learn more about our services, give us a call at Westpoint Optical today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can you keep your eyes healthy as you get older?

A: Besides wearing sunglasses outside, you can keep your eyes healthy by eating foods with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Don’t smoke, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. Most importantly, visit your eye doctor regularly to catch any eye problems early.

Q: How often should you have an eye exam?

A: If you’re an adult, it’s a good idea to have a thorough eye exam every 1-2 years or as your optometrist recommends. When you’re over 65, yearly eye exams are a must, as age-related eye issues can start happening around that time. And remember, at Westpoint Optical, we’ve got great frames for prescription eyeglasses and computer glasses, so stop by for an eye exam and stylish eyewear that suits you!