Sunglasses

Many people are cheered by a bright, sunny day, but the effect of all that sunlight on the eyes is a less sunny proposition.  UV and glare can create a variety of issues, from dangerous “snow blindness” to irreversible disorders that threaten your eyesight.  Here are some frequently asked questions about the role of sunglasses in protecting the eyes from harm.  If you want to know more about choosing the right sunglasses, call us at 615-331-8688 today.

What are UV rays?

UV stands for ultraviolet, a band of spectrum invisible to the eye.  Ultraviolet light consists of UVA, UVB and UVC rays.  UVC rays are stopped in Earth’s atmosphere before they reach the eye, but UVA and UVB can both reach the eye and potentially damage it.

How does UV affect unprotected eyes?

UV rays can cause proteins inside the lens to become opaque or cloudy, a condition known as cataracts. Cataracts can interfere with night vision, reduce your ability to see colors and make reading difficult.  They cannot be reversed, only removed.  UV exposure can also cause retinal damage, changes in the eye tissues and a temporary, but irritating “sunburn” to the cornea called photokeratitis.

How do I know my glasses will protect my eyes?

Choose glasses that claim to block at least 99% of UV rays – UVA, as well as UVB.  Look for labels reading “UV 400”, since this designation means that the glasses block UV rays as small as 400 nanometers, providing 100% eye protection.  Of course, you need to protect your eyes from the glare caused by the visible spectrum, as well.  To accomplish this, select products that block 75-90% of visible light.

What are polarized lenses?

Polarized lenses are specially designed to filter out certain types of glare that tend to radiate upward from horizontal surfaces when sunlight bounces off of those surfaces.  They are recommended for tasks such as boating, fishing skiing, golfing, jogging and driving.  Most polarized lenses will bear a label identifying them as such.

What types of glasses can I choose from?

We are able to provide you with a wide range of sunglass options.  If you normally wear glasses to correct your eyesight, you would not believe how much you would benefit and enjoy prescription sunwear.  If two pairs of glasses are not for you, then photo sensing lenses can be a great option.  The latest in photo sensing technology allows for lenses to change rapidly from clear to dark and back again.  We can even apply polarization!

What additional types of protection should I consider?

If you worry about light, including harmful UV, leaking in through the sides or top of your sunglasses, wear a broad-brimmed hat to reduce some of this exposure  If you use prescription eyewear to correct your eyesight, you may also want to think about getting a pair of UV-blocking contact lenses in your prescription.  These lenses may be worn alongside a non-prescription pair of sunglasses for optimum eye protection.
For more information on choosing the right sunglasses contact our office at 615-331-8688 today.