We all know wearing sunscreen protects our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) light. Putting on a pair of sunglasses helps to protect our eyes from the same risk. 

UV radiation can raise the chance of developing eye disease, especially cancer and cataracts. While extremely bright lights in general, like direct sun, can slowly damage the retina and optic nerve.

When selecting a pair of sunglasses, go for a pair that offers complete coverage of the eye and blocks both UVA and UVB radiation. UVA rays tend to penetrate further, causing cancer, while UVB causes immediate damage to the outermost cells. Never pick up a pair of sunglasses that doesn’t say 100% UV protection. Blocking both is essential to maintaining eye health. 

But what about that other label that crops up when shopping for sunglasses?

Sunglasses are essential for those who drive or find themselves outdoors throughout the year. Keeping a pair on when in sunlight helps maintain good vision throughout your life by reducing the risk of damage. Be sure to pick one that protects against UV radiation and, if appropriate, has polarized lenses to reap the maximum rewards.

If you have an existing eyeglass prescription, picking out a pair of sunglasses isn’t as simple as selecting a pair you like with the 100% UV sticker. Taking into account your existing eyesight considerations is essential. 

As we age, our risk of many diseases and conditions naturally increase. Our eyes are no exception. 

By the time we reach the age of sixty-five, nearly one in three Americans will have developed an eye disease that can impair vision. Age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy are the top four leading causes of blindness or low vision  reduced vision.

The changes in visual acuity caused by these and other diseases are often imperceptible at first, meaning proper eye care and regular monitoring is key to early detection and treatment.

Eye dilation refers to when the pupil, the black center part of our eye, enlarges or becomes wider. Our eyes naturally dilate throughout the day, depending on lighting and other factors. This dilation and subsequent constriction of the pupil helps us focus and is primarily a safety mechanism that prevents dangerous levels of light from reaching the back of our eye. 

Eye exams can often use drops to dilate the eyes for imaging the retina. It is one of the more uncomfortable parts of visiting the eye doctor, but it can also leave you wondering; If too much light can potentially damage our eyes, why would we want or need to have our eyes dilated?