Sunglasses: An Important Protection for Your Eyes

Although many people see sunglasses as a fashion accessory, their usefulness is much more important. They offer considerable protection for your eyes.

The Main Reasons to Wear Sunglasses

The sun, even if it's vital to life, can be dangerous if you do not take the necessary precautions. We know that the damage caused by the sun on our skin can vary from early aging to skin cancer. As a comparison, the sunglasses are to the eyes what sunscreen is to the skin. After all, the eye is a fragile organ that requires adequate protection. Here are the main reasons why you should wear sunglasses at all times (even in winter, yes!):

They Protect Your Retina

Prolonged exposure to the sun, and more specifically to UV rays, can damage the retina. It can even cause irreversible damage. You have probably already stared at the sun and experienced a blinding and unpleasant sensation? It is actually a natural reflex of the human body to protect the eye. A healthy retina is essential to the proper perception of the images. Protecting your retina is protecting your good vision!

They Slow Down the Growth of Cataracts

Although there is still no definitive way to prevent cataracts, wearing sunglasses helps to protect the natural lens of the eye and slow down the growth of the disease.

They Protect the Cornea Against Sunburn

You may not know it, but like for the skin, the sun can cause burns on the surface of the eye! Symptoms associated with this type of sunburn can include redness, burning, increased sensitivity to light or watery eyes.

Which Kind of Sunglasses Should You Choose?

Like all things, quality has a price, and not all products are created equal. When it comes to choosing your sunglasses, you have to pay special attention to the quality of the lenses. A lens is considered adequate if it blocks at least 99% of the UV rays and filters the blue light.

You Suspect Eye Symptoms?

Learn more about eye diseases. If you have a request for consultation from your health care professional for an ophthalmic visit, you can make an appointment online at the Bellevue Clinic.