New Delhi:Sunglasses have always been an accessory, something you wear to complete a look on a sunny day. But the main purpose of sunglasses is not for aesthetic reasons but for their protective effect against damaging UV rays.
“UV damage to the eyes accumulates over time and is generally permanent, so sunglasses should be regarded as protective medical eyewear, not a fashion statement,” explains Dr Vasant Sapovadia.
This change of perception is important for a country like India where exposure to sunlight is an everyday phenomenon. Eye protection is not an occasional thing, it is a habit that must be incorporated into our daily routines.
Why UV damage to the eyes often goes unrecognised
Damage to the eyes caused by UV rays is painless, unlike sunburn. You don’t get an immediate response as to what is happening.
Even walking around, or working in natural light, are common activities that can expose you to UV radiation while you go about your daily grind. Since it happens slowly, you probably won’t know about it until you begin having problems with your vision.
How UV rays hurt your eyes over time
When your eyes are exposed to UV rays all the time, both the outside and inside structures of your eyes change. Some early signs are watery eyes, being sensitive to bright lights, dry eyes, or just feeling bad when you go outside.
Long-term exposure may result in the onset of additional conditions such as cataracts, photokeratitis, and diminished vision. You can still get UV rays on cloudy days.
Sunglasses are not just an accessory; they protect your eyes.
Sunglasses are easy to think of as something you don't need. In reality, they work like sunscreen for the skin, protecting the eyes. The eyes take in UV radiation all day long if they aren't protected. Wearing sunglasses often will lower this risk and protect sensitive parts of your eyes from harm.
Consistency is the most important thing here. Wearing it regularly can have a big impact, but using it only once in a while won't.
False assumption number one: Dark lenses provide better protection
Many people think that darker sunglasses lenses provide better protection from UV light. Unfortunately there is no truth in it at all.
Dark lenses without proper UV filters are bad for you. They make the pupils dilate, allowing more UV rays to enter. This makes the right labelling much more important than the appearance.
How to pick the right pair of sunglasses
Not all sunglasses are the same. First, you should check to see if the glasses are labeled "100% UV protected" or "UV400." This will make sure that they protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
Frames that are bigger and have designs that wrap around them offer better protection because they don't let any light in from the sides. Polarized glasses can help reduce glare, especially when driving or in places with a lot of reflection, but they don't protect against UV rays.
Also, it's important to have sunglasses that fit well and feel good, because then you'll wear them all the time.
Simple things you can do to keep your eyes safe
To protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, you don't need to take drastic steps. Small things can make a big difference.
The only way to do it is sunglasses on every time you step outside into the open air. For added protection, you can wear a hat with the sunglasses. You should try to stay out of the sun's hottest hours and look after your eyes well.
People don’t think about eye care until something happens to their eyes. It is easier to prevent the effects of UV rays than to cure them. Sunglasses do not just complete your outfit; they are an important part of daily life. If you view them as protective gear and not as fashion accessories, it will have a positive impact on your eye care routine.
People don’t think about eye care until something happens to their eyes. It is easier to prevent the effects of UV rays than to cure them. Sunglasses do not just complete your outfit; they are an important part of daily life. If you view them as protective gear and not as fashion accessories, it will have a positive impact on your eye care routine.