Slather on sunscreen. Drink lots of water. Spray on bug
repellent. Wear a wide brim hat.
There’s a lot we can do to protect our health before heading
out for Fourth of July picnics or other fun summer activities. But, according to our summer savvy regional
medical director, Dr. Phil Benditt, one area of health many of us neglect to
protect in the summer is our eye health.
So, I asked Dr. Phil to tell me more…
According to Dr. Phil, the same ultraviolet radiation that
causes sun burns can also cause serious eye damage. Both long-wave UVA rays and short-wave UVB
rays are known to contribute to the development of cataracts and macular
degeneration, which can result in blindness.
Many people may not be aware that intense short-term
exposure to ultraviolet light can cause “eye sunburn,” a painful condition
associated with long hours of outdoor recreational activity. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation
can also lead to skin cancer around the eyes.
Sunglasses and a wide-brim had can protect your eyes from
the sun. Ideally, sunglasses should
block out 99 percent or more of both UVA and UVB radiation.
For those who prefer a cool indoor movie theater to the heat
outside, Dr. Phil says 3-D movies are also an opportunity to check up on your
eye health. The American Optometry Association’s
(AOA) report, “3D in the Classroom” states that 3-D movies have the potential
to help identify vision problems that may otherwise go unnoticed. After watching a 3-D movie, if you or a
family member experience blurred vision, dizziness, discomfort, double vision,
or eye fatigue, schedule a visit with your eye doctor. According to the AOA report, about one in
four children might have vision problems that may be detected with 3-D viewing.
So, whatever eye wear you are sporting this weekend – sunglasses
or 3-D – have a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday!
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| Dr. Health E. Hound sporting his favorite eye wear |
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