How important are good sunglasses?

That gorgeous bright orb in the sky that gives us life can also age us very quickly.  Harmful UV rays leaving the sun have been known to cause early aging along with increased health risk.  That beautiful star we call the sun must be respected so that we can take all the good it gives and leave all bad.

There are three very common conditions UV exposure will create, all of which are preventable with proper UV protected sunglasses.  The first condition, being the mildest, is called Pingueculitis.  The conjunctiva (clear surface overlying the sclera (white bone-like structure)) will protect itself from exposure by creating layers of yellow-pigmented tissue.  Resulting in a yellow appearance near the corners of the eye.  The second condition, much more aggressive and bothersome, is called Pterygium.  The conjunctiva will again protect itself with even more tissue that will grow in elevation, creating a more pink appearance that will lead to physical discomfort.  Most patients complain of a sandy, gritty feeling in the eyes.  The last condition, most common of all, is called Cataract.  Cataracts are usually seen in the elderly because they've lived in the sun most of their lives and are expected to have some as they age.  This will slowly decrease their vision until surgery is performed to extract that cataract.  However more and more younger people are seen with early cataract, especially in states like California where the sun is more intense.  

All of these conditions are in no way harmful to the health of the eye (Pterygium may grow large enough to cover an eye; however most of these patients eventually make it to our office before it gets too aggressive).  The treatments are usually surgical with low risk factors and high success rates.  Still all these measures can be avoided by using sunglasses to shade the eyes.  

Next time you head outdoors make sure to bring your UV approved shades along with some sunscreen.  Even on cloudy days UV rays will penetrate through the clouds leading to UV damage.  Not only do you look cool but will help your eyes stay young and brilliantly white like the stars in the sky.  

"See and Be Seen" @ Eyed LA Optometry in Brentwood, West Los Angeles

www.eyedla.com