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Why Do I Need To Wear Sunglasses?

12 September 2012
Why Do I Need To Wear Sunglasses?

Sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays

Sunglasses aren’t just a fashion statement - they are essential for the health of your eyes and vision. Most of us know we should be wearing sunglasses, but not everyone knows why. We clear this up.

Sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays

You protect your skin from the sun - but are you looking after your eyes? Your eyes are just as susceptible to damage from UV rays. Prolonged exposure can put you at a much higher risk of developing a range of eye problems, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Sunglasses protect your eyes from dust and dirt

A good pair of wraparound sunglasses will protect your eyes from dangers such as dust and dirt, which is particularly important if you spend a lot of time working outdoors. They can also help to prevent dry eye and protect contact lenses from irritating particles.

Sunglasses reduce glare

Glare can both be annoying and irritating for our eyes. It occurs when light reflects off of a light or shiny surface such as water, snow or sand. Glare can be dangerous, particularly when driving, as it can affect your vision.

The easiest way to prevent glare is by wearing sunglasses. For the best glare protection, ask your optometrist for polarised sunglasses.

Sunglasses help vision

Our eyes require a certain level of light to be able to see, however too much light is damaging to them. Too much exposure to bright light can actually ‘bleach’ your retina, which can result in both temporary and permanent vision problems.

How do I choose sunglasses?

Not all sunglasses are suitable for protecting your eyes. When choosing sunglasses always make sure they offer adequate UV protection - they should block 100% of UV rays. Information about UV protection should be included on the sunglasses, but if in doubt, speak to your optometrist.

If you need vision correction you can still get sunglasses - speak to your Toowoomba optometrist who will be able to help you choose a pair of prescription sunglasses so you can enjoy good vision in any condition.

Always visit your Toowoomba optometrist every two years for a comprehensive eye exam.

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