Tips to Protect Your Eyes from UV Damage

While enjoying the sun and the warm weather is fun, it can also be dangerous, especially for your eyes. You might remember to use sunblock to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun, but many people forget about protecting their eyes. UV rays are ultraviolet rays that are emitted by the sun. It is just as important to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes as it is to wear sunblock to protect your skin. At Wellington Eye Care, serving Fort Collins and Wellington, CO, our eye doctor provides sunglasses and will guide you on other ways to protect your eyes.

UV Rays

Overexposure to UV rays, especially when unprotected, is damaging to your eyes. If you get exposed to UV rays, it can increase your chances of developing a cataract or macular degeneration. If you get excessive amounts of exposure, either from the sun or from a tanning machine, you can develop pterygium or pinguecula, which are abnormal growths on the eye that need to be removed. Your corneas can also become sunburned, which is painful and dangerous. All of these conditions are preventable with protective eyewear.

Protecting Your Eyes

When you are going to be out in the sun, sunglasses are the best way to protect your eyes. Wrap-around glasses are the best option and offer the most protection. Talk to our optometrist about prescription sunglasses or polarized glasses. It is important that you have a pair of sunglasses that offer maximum UV protection. You should wear sunglasses even when it is cloudy out, as UV rays are still a threat.

You can also wear a wide-brimmed hat to provide more UV protection. Try to stay in shady areas and avoid directly looking at the sun. Be sure to take breaks from being in the sun and not to stay outside for long periods of time.

Visit Our Optometrist in Wellington, CO for Sunglasses

Providing UV protection for your eyes is vital in keeping them healthy. At Wellington Eye Care, serving Wellington and Fort Collins, CO, our eye doctor provides sunglasses and will guide you on how to protect your eyes from the sun. Call us today to schedule an appointment.