Being outdoors can be enjoyable, but excessive exposure ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is dangerous and can cause blistering sunburns and long-term eye damage.
Long-term exposure to UV radiation may contribute to macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss among older Americans, and cataracts, a major cause of visual impairment and blindness around the world.
Your eyes need protection for lengthy high-exposure outings, such as skiing, hiking, picnicking and other outdoor ventures. UV rays reflected off sand, snow or pavement can damage the eye’s surface. Similar to sunburns, these burns usually disappear within a couple of days, but may lead to further complications later in life.
To protect your eyes, wear sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat. Select sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays. Don’t be deceived by color or cost. The ability to block UV light is not dependent on the darkness of the lens or the price tag.
Also, while out enjoying the sun in the water, remember to wear swimming goggles when you swim. Chlorine in pools can make your eyes red and puffy, and ponds and lakes may have bacteria that can get underneath contact lenses and cause inflammation of the cornea.
All Vision Awareness Topics:
Glaucoma
Save Your Vision
Low Vision/Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Sports Eye Safety
Healthy Vision
Fireworks Eye Safety
Ultraviolet Radiation (UV) Safety
Cataract Awareness
Children's Eye Health & Safety
Eye Injury Prevention
Diabetic Eye Disease
Safe Toys & Celebrations
