Protect Your Eyes From Sun Damage

Most people think that they should use sunscreen to keep from getting a sunburn on your skin. But what about your eyes? How do you protect your eyes from getting too much sun?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology wants to make everyone aware of a few simple things that you can do to help protect your eyes from UV damage. According to their recent press release, here are a few of those tips:

• Wear the right sunglasses – Look for those labeled "UV400" or "100 percent UV protection" when buying sunglasses. Less costly sunglasses with this label can be just as effective as the expensive kind.
• Don't stare at the sun – Sun worshipers take note: directly gazing at the sun can burn holes in the retina, the light-sensitive layer of cells in the back of the eye needed for central vision. This condition is called solar retinopathy. While rare, the damage is irreversible.
• Check your medication labels – One in three adults uses medication that could make the eyes more vulnerable to UV ray damage, according to a sun safety survey by the Academy. Check the labels on your prescriptions to see if they cause photo-sensitivity. If so, make sure to protect your skin and eyes or avoid sun exposure when possible.
• Wear a hat– In addition to shades, consider wearing a hat with broad brim. They have been shown to significantly cut exposure to harmful rays.
• Don't drive without UV eye protection – (Use the info in the first tip, to get a pair of sunglasses that will help keep your eyes safe while driving). Not all car windows protect you from UV light. A recent study found that side windows blocked only 71 percent of rays, compared to 96 percent in the windshield.