When kids pack for summer camp, sunglasses aren't all the time at the highest of the availability list. But I preferred them for my 12-year-old son, Carson, who had just began rowing camp in Florida, for 2 reasons:
- Our eyes are most vulnerable to the sun's ultraviolet rays in our teens, 20s, and 30s, although damage normally doesn't show until later in life.
- The sun's rays are particularly intense near reflective surfaces.
Ultraviolet rays in sunlight can damage the eyes. However, experts don't know exactly How Ultraviolet rays damage the eyes, and a few debate whether sunlight Straight Common eye conditions comparable to cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration are the cause, in accordance with Dr. Pasquale. Cataracts are clouding over the lens of the attention, which makes vision blurry. Glaucoma is increased pressure contained in the eye, which may damage the optic nerve and result in blindness. Age-related macular degeneration steadily destroys the macula, the a part of the attention that gives sharp central vision.
Worldwide, exfoliation syndrome is probably the most common identifiable reason for secondary open-angle glaucoma and secondary closed-angle glaucoma. Exfoliation syndrome can also be related to cataracts and possibly macular degeneration. “Research has shown that women aged 15 to 24 who spend 10 hours a week in the sun have twice the risk of exfoliation syndrome compared to those who spend two or three hours a week in the sun. I live,” says Dr. Pasquale.
Use sunglasses for cover.
Protecting your eyes from the sun's harmful rays is a great strategy at any age. You don't need to spend a bundle to get a great pair of sunglasses. But it’s good to know what to search for within the lens. Most necessary: protection from ultraviolet rays, each UVA and UVB. You want 95% to 100% barrier. Also search for polarized lenses. They reduce glare from water, sand and snow.
But buyer beware: Manufacturers will not be required to reveal or guarantee UV protection. “You can't be sure that a cheap pair of sunglasses from the drugstore will really provide protection, even if it promises obstruction on the label,” says Thomas Merrill, an ophthalmologist on the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. are He recommends visiting an optical store where yow will discover guidance that can assist you to select good quality products. Even in case you don't need prescription sunglasses, you’ll be able to all the time profit from the recommendation of a specialist, especially in case your eyes are already damaged.
If you wear prescription glasses and don't wish to buy prescription glasses, you’ll be able to buy sunglasses that fit over your regular glasses. “It gives you protection from the top and sides, and it's more comfortable for your eyes, especially if you're on the water,” says Merrill. A pair of those normally runs about $50.
Include early detection.
In addition to protecting your eyes from ultraviolet light, one other approach to prevent cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration from robbing you of your vision is to detect these conditions before they develop into an issue. You can do that with a comprehensive eye exam. This involves dilating the eyes to open the pupils so a health care provider can examine the retina behind the attention. He will even check your eye pressure, have a look at their structure and muscle function, and proper vision problems if needed.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends every two to 4 years for people ages 40 to 55, each one to 3 years for people ages 55 to 65, and each yr for people age 65 and older. A comprehensive eye exam is beneficial each one to 2 years. People with risk aspects for eye problems — for instance, individuals with diabetes — might have more frequent eye exams. Younger adults need comprehensive eye exams less steadily — at the least once between ages 20 and 29, and at the least twice between ages 30 and 39. Children and adolescents must have their eyes examined by their family physician each one to 2 years, and see an ophthalmologist in the event that they need further evaluation.
Protecting young eyes
Carson agrees that she needs sunglasses — especially a pair that appears cool. We went in search of sports sunglasses with UV protection, which we quickly found. They didn't break the bank, they usually gave me peace of mind that my son's eyes could be protected when he waded across the water.