Sunglasses should be used from an early age to prevent eye problems in the future

This summer, when your kids pack for summer camp, make sunglasses a top priority in the supply list.

This is really for two reasons:

1. Our eyes are most vulnerable to the sun’s ultraviolet rays in our teens, 20s, and 30s, although the damage usually doesn’t show up until later in life. 
2. The sun’s rays are especially intense near reflective surfaces. 

The ultraviolet rays in sunlight can damage the eyes. However, experts don’t know exactly how ultraviolet rays harm the eyes, and some even debate whether sunlight directly causes common eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.

(c) blackwelleyesight.com

But there’s evidence that sun exposure can cause exfoliation syndrome. Worldwide, exfoliation syndrome is the most common identifiable cause of secondary open-angle glaucoma and secondary closed-angle glaucoma. Exfoliation syndrome is also linked to cataracts and possibly to macular degeneration. Research has shown that women between ages 15 and 24 who spend 10 hours a week in the sun seem to have a twofold risk of exfoliation syndrome compared with people who spend two or three hours a week in the sun.

Use sunglasses for protection

(c) Dr Liliana Kiraz

Protecting your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays is a good strategy at any age. You don’t have to spend a bundle to get a good pair of sunglasses. But you do need to know what to look for in lenses. Most important: protection against ultraviolet rays, both UVA and UVB. You’ll want 95% to 100% blockage. Also look for polarized lenses; they reduce the glare from water, sand, and snow.

But buyer beware: manufacturers aren't required to disclose or guarantee UV protection. You can’t be certain that an inexpensive pair of sunglasses from the drugstore will really provide protection, even if it promises blockage on the label. If you wear prescription eyeglasses and don’t want to buy prescription sunglasses, you can buy sunglasses that fit over your regular glasses.

Add early detection, too

In addition to protecting your eyes from ultraviolet light, another way to stop cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration from robbing you of your vision is to discover these conditions before they cause trouble. Get a comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated examination of the retina.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends comprehensive eye exams every two to four years for people ages 40 to 55, every one to three years for people ages 55 to 65, and every one to two years for people ages 65 and older. People with risk factors for eye problems — individuals with diabetes, for example — may need more frequent eye exams. Younger adults need comprehensive eye exams less frequently — at least once between the ages of 20 and 29, and at least twice between the ages of 30 and 39. Children and teens should have their eyes screened every one to two years by their family physician, and visit an ophthalmologist if they need further evaluation.

Sourced from Harvard Health Blog

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