Did you know the sun can damage more than the skin? The sun’s rays are so powerful that they can damage the eyes and can cause long lasting disease. The sun puts off three different types of rays: UVC, UVB, and UVA. Ultraviolet ray’s in the form of UVC are most dangerous but luckily we are protected by the ozone layer surrounding Earth. UVA and UVB rays are what every patient should be concerned about. 

As we all know living in Colorado we are a lot closer to the sun’s damaging rays, they are more damaging to our health than say the beach in Florida. These rays can not only cause skin cancer to any portion of the human body, but they can cause long lasting eye disease. UVA rays can pass through the front portion of the eye known as the cornea and effect the intricate organs inside the eye. Types of damage that can be caused by these harmful rays include but not limited to: cataracts, macular or retinal degeneration, or even a growth of tissue that can block vision known as a pterygium. 

Children are at even more of a risk to have long lasting affects from the sun. It is just as important from them to wear sun protection than it is for adults. Dr. Margolis recommends the use of sun glasses for every patient, young or wise, while spending any amount of time in the sun.

Technology in this time has evolved to something more than it was 30 years ago. Patients have a lot more options when it comes to eye wear. We at MargolisVision suggest you stop in for a visit with our optician to ask any questions you may have regarding your current eye wear or what options you may have to upgrade to more protective wear for the 2010 year.