The year has sprinted into summer, which means we are in the middle of a season of celebration. Whether it’s a wedding, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, or just warm outside and a nice long day, people love to celebrate with fireworks. We all celebrate in a number of different ways. 

Maybe you prefer to brave the heat and fire up the grill, jump into the pool or your favorite waterway, or explore the many miles of trails and lose yourself in the beauty of nature. 

But one thing that has become a steadfast part of many people's celebrations is lighting off a few fireworks. While they can be a fun and mesmerizing spectacle for children and adults alike, fireworks can pose a significant health and safety hazard, especially to our eyes and vision.

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.