Are you Putting your Eyes at Risk?
Monday, May 15th, 2017, 6:56 am
As summer quickly approaches, more people are thinking about skin cancer and their personal risk for this frightening but common disease. Consumers are strolling the aisles looking for high SPF products to carry with them throughout their busy summer; they may even purchase a hat to wear on long days at the pool. But is this enough? And just what are the risks of UV exposure to the eyes? It may be more than you think.
Most people do not consider the effects that UV exposure will have on their eyes, and on the delicate skin around them. Sure, there is more information available to alert us to problems such as premature aging such as crow’s feet or under eye puffiness due to collagen loss (a direct result of sun damage). The more exposure that occurs, though, the greater a person’s risk of developing skin cancer on the eyelid, and this is no small matter.
As much as 10% of skin cancer diagnoses involve the skin around the eyes, usually the lower lid. The development of a cancerous growth on the eyelid poses more than a cosmetic threat, as well. Cancerous cells can spread to the nasal cavity or into the orbital cavity behind the eye, posing a risk of vision loss.
Protecting your Eyes also Serves your Fashion Sense
For decades, sunglasses have been revered as a vital fashion accessory. It goes way beyond that! If you do not wear sunglasses, start. Your eyes will thank you. Sunglasses are the second line of defense against UV exposure, right after sunscreen. Like sunscreen (SPF 30 is fine, according to experts), sunglasses should be worn daily, anytime you go outside. Even if the sky is slightly cloudy, sunglasses will protect your vision and your skin.
Sunglasses perform vital tasks:
- 99 to 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays should be filtered by your sunglasses.
- The color of your lenses will affect what you see. Yellow lenses are good for preserving depth perception while maximizing color contrast. Color contrast is increased in brown lenses, and brightness is decreased in gray lenses.
- Polarized lenses significantly reduce glare, which keeps you from squinting unnecessarily.
- Properly sized lenses block light from the eyes themselves, as well as the skin around the eyes.
Marion Eye Center and Optical offers friendly service to patients of all ages. Call 618-993-5686 to schedule your eye exam or treatment.
Category: Eye Care
