Can UV Rays Contribute to Dry Eye?
July in Las Vegas is hot! No joke. But we know how to brave the heat anyway, heading outdoors for summer fun like kayaking, golfing, gardening, patio-dwelling and other amazing outdoor activities in beautiful Nevada.
Outdoor time is great, as long as you are prepared and protected. July is UV Safety Month. And we want to spread the word about how important it is to protect yourself (including your eyes!) from the harmful effects of UV rays. UV exposure is at its highest when and where the sun’s rays are the strongest; and even more so during the summer months. Hello, sunny Las Vegas.
Protect Your Eyes
Everyone knows to use sunscreen to protect their skin. But at Center For Sight, we want to remind you about the importance of protecting your eyes. Experts agree that prolonged exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts and other growths on the eye, including cancer.
“UV exposure is as bad for your eyes as it is for your skin. By wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, you can enjoy everything summer offers while decreasing your risk for eye diseases and other issues related to your eyes.”
Eva Liang, MD
Protect the Little Eyes Even More
By the time a person reaches age 20, on average, that person has received 80% of their life’s UV exposure. Children have more delicate lenses in their eyes and more sensitive skin on their bodies than adults. As a result, they are at greater risk of experiencing adverse effects of over-exposure to UV light.
These over-exposure effects may not show up until later in life with an increased risk of developing conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. This is why it is so important to effectively protect little eyes from the sun.
Las Vegas’ Leading Dry Eye Center at Center for Sight
Whether it’s from the sun or other environmental factors like pollution and even seasonal allergens, dry eye is a common problem in Las Vegas and across the country. Center For Sight’s Advanced Dry Eye Center is dedicated to helping people find relief from chronic dry eye issues.
Fun fact: Las Vegas has the lowest humidity on record in the country, contributing to evaporative dry eye, a condition affecting the Meibomian Glands located in the eyelids. More than 85% of people diagnosed with dry eye have MGD or Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. The good news is that, in most cases, dry eye is very treatable.
At our Advanced Dry Eye Center, Center For Sight offers a variety of treatment options for dry eye. After diagnostic testing, we can help you determine which course of treatment is right for you.
Throwing Shade(s)
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, only about half of people who wear sunglasses check the UV rating before buying. This should not be! Wearing sunglasses with appropriate protection against harmful UV rays is a simple way to protect yourself.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends choosing sunglasses labeled with “100% UV protection”. Additionally, select glasses that block both UVA and UVB rays and that are labeled either UV400 or 100% UV protection.
If you are someone who spends significant time outdoors, consider choosing a wraparound style so that the sun’s rays can’t sneak in from the side. And remember, even If you wear UV-blocking contact lenses, you’ll still need sunglasses!
Have 20/Happy Eyes with Help from Center For Sight
At Center For Sight, we want you and your family to enjoy the summer sun safely while also protecting your precious eyes. At Center For Sight, we love eyes! And taking the time to educate our valued family of patients about ways to protect them for a lifetime is just one more way we can help you be 20/Happy!
From comprehensive eye care for the entire family to LASIK and modern cataract surgery, we’re here for you. Schedule your one-on-one consultation today. So many Las Vegas residents have already become a part of the Center For Sight family. Join us!
