UV Rays and Eye Care

Article submitted by Dr. Ginsberg. He may be reached at 239-790-2444 in Fort Myers, 239-574-2763 in Cape Coral or 239-591-0023 in Naples.

Florida offers wonderful winter and summer seasons - warm weather, vacation and outdoor activities. But this also presents some health hazards one must take note of, like protection from the UV rays.

Three types of UV rays cause damage, UV-A, UV-B and UVC. Harmful UV rays are more intense during the hours of 10 am through 4 pm, particularly in the summer months, at higher altitudes and locations that lie closer to the equator.

Florida, for example, receives 150 percent more UV rays than Maine, which means that Florida residents must take additional precautions to provide proper protection from the sun. Take heed because most people don't know the sun's harmful effects are also increased by intensified wind and reflections from the water and sand.

Most Americans understand the importance of protecting their skin from the sun, but seldom make an effort to protect their eyes. Long term exposure to the sun's rays can lead to serious damage of your vision including cataracts, macular degeneration and pterygia (plural for pterygium). Researchers even say that some evidence points to worsening of cataracts and macular degeneration by this sun exposure.

It is recommended that some sort of sun protection for the eyes be used when outside for long periods of time. It doesn't necessarily mean the most expensive glasses or the color will make a difference, but what one needs to look for is ultraviolet protection sunglasses that will block anywhere from 99 to 100% of harmful UV rays.

"Prescription sunglasses are the sunscreen for your eyes," said Barrett Ross Ginsberg, M.D., with the Eye Centers of Florida. "When protecting your eyes, sunglasses must provide 100 percent protection from all detrimental UV rays, and the frames should cover your entire visual field."

Dr. Ginsberg is a Board Certified Ophthalmologist at the Eye Centers of Florida. He is fellowship trained in refractive and cataract surgery as well as diseases and surgery of the cornea and says the use of sunglasses is imperative. Wearing sunglasses not only protects your eyes from the sun's UV radiation, but it helps you see more comfortably and clearly, he adds. Often times, cheaper sunglasses distort vision; therefore, a good pair of shades is very important.

Eyes, like your skin, never recover from UV exposure. Therefore, identify the protection level necessary and look for a lens made of a higher monomers index. Studies show that the most popular lens colors are either gray or brown. Either of these is fine and is usually chosen based on wearer's preference. Visit your eye doctor or a certified optician in order for them to explain the differences between the colors and help you decide which will fulfill your needs.