Watch out for sun damage

I was pleased to read an article on the BBC website raising awareness of sun damage and the eyes yesterday. Rightly so, the importance of protecting the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays is well documented. People now take the issue seriously piling on sunscreen, ensuring everyone in the family is covered. However often the eyes are overlooked.

Perhaps it’s the fact that you can’t see the burn. If you forget to wear sunglasses you don’t wake up the next morning with red, sore skin. But your eyes are also burning, you just can’t see it but the damage that is being done.

As discussed in the article, there are a number of serious conditions associated with exposure to UV rays like cataract and macular degeneration. All develop slowly over time and the effects will be felt as the body’s ability to repair diminishes. Ultimately in later years, the various conditions could cause serious vision problems and in some cases a total loss of sight.

Something that always surprises me is that parents don’t always think of sunglasses for their children. I think it’s an awareness issue. I know keeping sunglasses on a toddler is not easy but getting them used to wearing sunglasses and a hat from an early age, could help prevent them developing these serious eye conditions in years to come.

I wrote a blog back in May on selecting sunglasses. If you’re planning to buy a new pair, familiarise yourself with considerations when making your purchase.

When you think suntan lotion, think sunglasses as well.