Winter and Sunglasses?

When you think of winter you think of snow, hot chocolate and winter hats. You don't often associate colder weather with the sun or the need to wear sunglasses. The truth is, however, that the sun during winter months can be incredibly harmful to your vision. The optometrists at Total Eyecare in Elko, NV want to help you be aware of the dangers of the sun in the winter and what you can do to protect your eyesight. '

Dangers of the Winter Sun

During the winter months, the sun is lower in the sky than in the summer. The lower angle actually gives your eyes more exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.  Being surrounded by snow just compounds the problem: up to 80 percent of the sun's UV rays reflect off the snow and toward your eyes. Without UV protection, you are susceptible to snow blindness, a condition which can lead to pain, hazy vision, and a feeling of sand stuck in your eye that can last for a few days. In addition, wearing sunglasses can help prevent the occurrence of dry eye, an ailment where there is a lack of sufficient eye lubrication.

Even more seriously, continued exposure to the sun can lead to the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. Regular exposure to the winter sun will speed up the occurrence of these diseases, which can cause blurred vision and even blindness. While surgery can correct cataracts there is no permanent cure for macular degeneration. 

What Can I Do?

Wearing sunglasses is essential all year long. It is recommended to buy a pair with anti-reflective, polarized lenses that block 100 percent of UV radiation. If you are unsure if your sunglasses have the necessary level of UV protection, you can have them tested by a professional. It is suggested that adults see their optometrist annually and children get their eyes checked every six months. 

We Are Here to Help

Do you need an optometrist in Elko, Nevada? At Total Eyecare, we want to take care of all your vision needs. Please contact us at 775-738-8491 to ensure your eyes remain healthy over a lifetime.