Sunglasses as important as sunscreen

Ophthalmologists urge individuals to use sunglasses, especially grey-colored ones, to protect their eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.

They claim that overexposure to the sun's UV rays not only is accompanied with serious skin conditions but is also linked to several eye problems including age-related cataracts, pterygium, photokeratitis and degenerative corneal changes.

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), these conditions may result in blurred vision, irritation, redness, tearing, temporary vision loss and even blindness in some cases.

In a statement AOA ophthalmologist claim wearing a brimmed hat and eyewear with acceptable UV absorption rate are the most simple, safe and inexpensive methods for protecting the eyes. Moreover, they said sunglasses should be used whenever the eyes are exposed to UV radiation even on cloudy days and in wintertime.

According to the statement:

-Good sunglasses should block out 99 percent of UV-A and UV-B radiation and screen out 75 percent to 90 percent of visible light.

- The lenses should be perfectly matched in color and free of distortions or imperfections. It should be noted that individuals suffering from color blindness disease should choose the color of their eyewear lenses based on their underlying condition.

- Gray-colored lenses are the most recommended lenses as they reduce light-intensity without altering the color of objects. Sunglasses with red or pink colored lenses are not recommended.

- Gray-colored lenses are the most recommended glasses for men while women can wear green or brown glasses as well.

- Polarized sunglasses protect eyes against the reflection of light especially in snow or on the road. Such lenses prevent horizontal rays, the majority of reflected rays, from entering the eyes.

- Lenses with a darker upper half are not a good choice as harmful rays usually enter from the lower part of the eye.

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