Your eyes need protection from sun damage. Most people will take care of their skin and protect it from sun damage. However, your eyes also require the same or even more. Sun damage from UV radiation can burn the surface of your eye.

It damages the cornea and natural lens. It also results in age-related eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration. Here are some tips to protect your eyes from sun damage.

Check the Time You Spend Outside

UV light can cause damage to your eye surfaces and the eyelid. Hence, you need to be careful of how much time you spend outside. You also need to take care of the time you schedule your outdoor activities.

The early hours of the morning or late in the evening is the best time to engage in activities outdoors. The UV radiation is lowest at these times. But if you need to be up and about, use sunglasses.

Use Sunglasses

Your best action is to choose a pair that blocks 100 percent UVA and UVB rays. But if they are unavailable, you can get sunglasses that block out at least 90 percent of these rays. Do not confuse these with polarized glasses.

Polarized glasses only reduce glare, but you need glasses that protect your eyes from UV radiation. It will be great if you can combine polarization with UV radiation protection.

Added Protection

Added protection can be in the form of a wide-brimmed hat or transition lenses. These will give you extra protection from harmful UV rays since you can wear your hat as an addition to your sunglasses.

Also, your transition lenses will protect you when you need to remove your sunglasses. They will allow you to read and go about your daily duties. The lenses will become darker when there is exposure to UV light.

Never Stare at the Sun

Staring at the sun can burn the surface of your eyes. It can also affect the retina. When the sun damages the retina, it can lead to macular degeneration, an age-related eye disease. You may see dark spots and lose your central vision.

The damage is not reversible. However, you can control its progression by taking supplements and having a proper diet. The doctor may also prescribe medication.

Eat Healthy Foods

You may often hear that carrots are good for your eyes. However, plenty of other foods are also vital for your eye health. Ensure that you incorporate these into your diet. They include leafy greens that contain zeaxanthin and lutein.

These antioxidants will prevent the formation of cataracts and help protect your natural lens. Grapes are also a good choice. They protect your retina from the damaging effects of oxidation.

Hydrate

Lack of hydration may result in dry eyes, which makes the eyes susceptible to sun damage. Healthy eyes can fight the harmful effects of UV radiation. But when you have dry eyes, your eyes will have a low quantity of tears for protection. The sun may lead to further irritation and damage to the eyes.

For more information on protecting your eyes or to schedule an appointment, call Clarity Vision in Holly Springs, North Carolina at (919) 646-2900.