June is UV awareness month

Submitted by Josh Talkington on June 8, 2009

With the sun shinning longer as mid-summer gets closer, we are all exposed to more UV radiation from sunlight.  UV radiation is invisible to the human eye, but can cause or accelerate many ocular conditions.  A heavy exposure such as with boating or snow skiing, can cause a ‘sunburn’ on the surface of the cornea.  Just like sunburned skin, this may not cause any discomfort right away, but hours later.  Over time, frequent exposure to UV radiation, can play a factor in the development of Macular Degeneration and can accelerate Cataract development.

There are many different sunglasses available today.  Plastic and glass lenses absorb some UV light; however, the UV protection in those lenses can be improved by adding a special coating to the lenses.  Look for sunglasses that block 99-100% of UV radiation.  Most of all, enjoy the summer and it’s good weather.