Sunglasses and Ultraviolet Radiation

The sun gives off many forms of energy. Visible light from the sun helps us see the world around us. Other forms of light are not visible to the eye. These include ultraviolet (UV) light and infrared (IR) light. Even though these forms of light are not visible to the eye, they are still absorbed by the eye and the eye lids.

When all forms of light are absorbed by the body, a reaction occurs which results in heat and chemical changes. Ultraviolet light rays are particularly energetic and cause more chemical reactions (damage) in ocular tissues than visible light.

 

Ultraviolet (UV) Light Exposure

Contributes to:

Macular Degeneration
Eye Cancers   Basal cell Squamous cell Melanoma	Growths on the Eye   Pterygium Pingueculum	Corneal Burns Spheroidal degeneration Keratitis
Cataract	Solar Retinopathy

 

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Drugs Can Increase UV Toxicity

Chlorothiazides	Sulfonamides	Tetracycline
Phenothiazines	Psoralens	Allopurinol

If you are taking any of these drugs, care should be taken to reduce your exposure to ultraviolet light (e.g. sunlight).

 

Occupational Exposure to UV

is Related To Sun Exposure

Truck Drivers	Mailpersons	Couriers
Pilots	Lifeguards	Farmers
Fishermen	Astronauts	Ski Instructors
Park Rangers	Policemen	Construction Workers

These occupations (among others) as well as recreational exposure can increase your risk.

Sunblock

Ultraviolet radiation is divided into UVA, UVB, and UVC. Sunblock is primarily used to block UVB from burning our skin and causing cancer. SPF generally means Sun Protection Factor for UVB rays. That is SPF 8 means that if a person normally develops a sunburn in 15 minutes, it will take 2 hours before they burn. Some new sunblocks also stop UVA exposure, but only the opaque zinc oxide and titanium dioxide offer total protection by blocking all light.

Sunglasses

Dr. Finger says, "THINK OF SUNGLASSES AS SUNBLOCK FOR YOUR EYES." ™Sunglasses should block all UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. Be careful and ask for 100% UV protection. Your optical shop should have a machine that measures UV transmission through glasses called a "photometer." The photometer should find that your sunglasses block all UV radiation or light under 400 nm in wavelength.

Some people believe that blue light may also be harmful, but this is controversial. Blue-blocking glasses will make distant objects look sharper and a little yellow.

If you have a high-risk profession, or have already had an eye disease related to sun exposure, consider buying "wraparound" glasses, and wearing a hat.

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FAQ's

Q: What color sunglasses should I choose?

ANS: You may choose any color (gray, brown, green, or yellow). Some colors will affect your color vision. If you have a color vision problem gray is best (especially for driving).

Q: What else can I do to decrease glare?

ANS: Polarizers and antireflective coatings can be added to your glasses to decrease glare.

Q: Do cataract implants block UV light?

ANS: Yes, new implants (IOL's) contain UV blocking agents. Make sure to ask your doctor before your surgery. Don't forget to wear sunglasses to protect the outside of your eyes and eye lids!

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