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 Sunglasses
Sunglasses are an extremely important part of sun
protection. They are an excellent method of protecting your
health from the possible harm that the sun's rays can cause.
We all understand how important it is to protect our skin from
the sun; however, many of us don't realize that protecting our
eyes from UV light is equally as important..
Sunglasses are a vital part of ensuring that your risk of
excessive and potentially harmful sun exposure is kept to a
minimum. Sunglasses
can provide complete protection from UV rays that can damage
the conjunctivae and corneas in the eyes. Many eye ailments
can be caused or worsened by persistent exposure to strong sunlight,
including age related macular degeneration,
cataracts, and other diseases of the eyes.
In America, the manufacturing and distribution of nonprescription sunglasses
is regulated
by the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) in
the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Sunglasses are
classified as medical devices. In fact, sunglasses are the most widely
purchased over-the-counter ophthalmic devices
that the FDA regulates. Companies that manufacture and distribute sunglasses
must comply with
the standards enforced by the FDA. More than 300 million pairs
of sunglasses are purchased annually in the U.S.
Sunglasses have one primary purpose - to screen and protect
the eyes from the harmful
result of exposure to UV (ultraviolet) radiation. The
American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests that individuals
wear sunglasses that block 99% of UVA and UVB light. All
experts agree that sunglasses should provide at least 90% UV
protection.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has many recommendations
for consumers to follow when choosing sunglasses. These
suggestions include:
1)
Sunglasses should always be worn while outdoors. This is
essential, especially when:
-
It's summer - UVA and UVB
radiation is over 3 times higher in the summer than in the
winter
-
When near water
-
During winter sports,
especially those at high elevations, for example downhill
skiing
-
Taking medications that cause
photosensitivity
2) Wear nonprescription or
prescription sunglasses that block at
least 99%
of Ultraviolet Rays. UVB radiation is understood to be
more dangerous than UVA. Some manufacturer's
labels on sunglasses state: 'UV absorption up to 400nm.'. This
is equal to 100% UV absorption.
3) Wear sunglasses with polarized lenses.
Polarized
lenses minimize the glare that is reflected from
surfaces like water and concrete. These sunglasses lenses do not provide UV absorption,
so polarized
lenses should always provide additional UV protection.
4) Buy wraparound
sunglasses. Wraparounds provide protection in that they
prevent light reaching the eyes from the sides of the frames.
5) Sunglasses are imperative for
certain people. These include:
a) Individuals with any history of
vision problems or eye disease, for example retinal
dystrophy or macular degeneration.
b) Cataract surgery patients. This is especially true of
patients whose lens was replaced during surgery with an older IOL (intraocular lens).
In the past, these IOLs were not UV absorbent.
c) Patients who take photosensitizing drugs. These drugs can
cause an individual's skin, and sometimes their eyes, more sensitive to
the sun's rays. Photosensitive drugs include;
6) Those who wear contact lenses
should
ensure that the contacts provide UV protection. Sunglasses
should still be worn when outdoors, regardless of the kind of
contacts being worn.
Sunglasses are an very important part
of sun protection. As well, sunglasses aren't only practical,
but can also be great fun. The variety and functionality of
today's sunglasses provide options for everyone. Before you
buy discount glasses, always compare the quality with designer
sunglasses. These include brand names like Versace and Ray Ban
sunglasses.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers information
about
sunglasses and UV radiation. Read FAQs about
UV radiation from Prevent Blindness America. |
