If you have great vision, it’s easy to take it for granted. But you shouldn’t. If you want to maintain your eyesight and avoid deteriorating vision for as long as possible, you must take an active role in protecting and preserving your eye health. That includes protecting your eyes from acute and long-term injuries.
Protect Your Eyes from Direct Injury
No one enjoys wearing safety glasses or goggles, but it can save you from permanent vision loss. Depending on what you do for a living, you may need to wear protective eyewear at work, even if your employer has never suggested it.
Eye protection is also needed for a wide variety of tasks at home from yardwork to home improvement projects, as well as many hobbies and leisure activities. Make sure you wear the proper type of glasses or goggles for the job. You may need protection from projectiles, dust, chemicals, or blows to the face.
Protect Your Eyes from The Sun and Other Radiation
Sun protection is easier to accomplish, but just as important. UV rays cause damage over time. Choose sunglasses that provide “100% UV Protection” or “UV 400 Protection”. And, you have to wear them. It’s easy to remember on bright days when you need them for comfort, but most of us are remiss on cloudy days. If you only wear your sunglasses when it’s bright because you can’t see well enough with them on darker days, get a pair with light tint or no tint at all. The tint has nothing to do with UV protection.
Indoor tanning is far worse for your eyes than sun exposure, because the rays are so concentrated. The safest bet is to avoid indoor tanning altogether. For those who choose to indulge despite the risks, goggles that are made specifically for use in tanning beds are a must. You do not get adequate protection from sunglasses, a towel, or closing your eyes.
To learn more about the best type of eye protection for your career, lifestyle and activities, please consult with an ophthalmologist near you.
