Did you know our eyes can sunburn?

Yep, it’s called Photokeratitis and is caused by UV rays harming the eye. Symptoms include increased tears and a feeling of pain, likened to having sand in the eyes. We know how that feels and it is not fun. Scary stuff.

I can go on to tell you that it isn’t just sunburn you have to worry about. Short term issues can be irritation, swelling, redness, and hypersensitivity to light. Then there is long term. Are you sure you want to hear this? Premature aging of the skin, abnormal growths, cataracts, macular degneration, and even cancer of the eye.

All their sunglasses are from RealKidShades.com

This is why it’s important for the WHOLE FAMILY to wear sunglasses. Let me share some facts with you about children.

• 48% of U.S. adults report that they make their children wear sunglasses to protect eyes from UV damage
• Children receive three times the annual sun exposure of adult
• By the time an individual turns 18, he or she will have acquired nearly 80% of lifetime exposure to UV
• UVA damage is NOT reversible!

Even hats aren’t full protection as the UVA bounces off the concrete.

I have to say that I’m guilty of not making sure my kids are wearing them all the time. P’Diddy does put his on every time we leave the house, and keeps them on. He needs them so he doesn’t squint from the bright sun. My big boys only wear them when I make them, which many days I don’t find the energy to push it.

I have to tell you that these straps for kids are lifesaver!

When shopping for sunglasses please make sure the pair you are buying are following these guidelines…

• Wear UVA & UVB whenever possible.
• To know if your sunglasses filter out UVA and UVB, first look for a sticker or label on the lens or frame that indicates protection. If you don’t see a sticker or have an older pair of sunglasses, you can bring them to an eye care professional who can test them using a UV meter. Did you know this? I didn’t!
• It is advised to not buy from online auction sites, street vendors, or second-hand stores
• Make sure they are comfy and snug.

When they start to scratch up, buy new ones! Those tiny lines are letting in UV rays and your eyes are not being protected.

I learned all this information that I’m sharing with you today from attending a webinar by Dr. Dora Adamolpouls and The Vision Council. Wish you all could have been there to hear, but be sure to check out TheVisionCouncil.org & their Facebook page.

How much have you thought about UV rays and your eyes?

 

I am being compensated for this post from The Vision Council and SITS. Hope it was informative for you!