30 July, 2020
Aussies in most states across the nation have swapped their summer wardrobe for scarves and woolly coats for the last two months of winter…but before you rush to pack away your sunglasses, it’s important to consider the harmful impact UV rays can have on the eyes, even in the cooler months.
Research conducted by Optometry Australia for the 2020 Vision Index found a whopping 76 per cent of Australians think it is unnecessary to wear sunglasses during the winter months; whilst almost 1 in 10 Australians do not know UV protective sunglasses exist.
Just because the sun is behind the clouds, it doesn’t mean we should forget about protecting our eyes, especially when a staggering 90 per cent of the sun’s UV rays can filter through even the thickest cloud cover. So, while we may not be able to see the sun on cold and gloomy days, it’s there and so too are its damaging UV rays.
During the cooler months, the sun is at a lower level on the horizon leaving us exposed to UV rays. UV levels are three or above in Australia, putting our eyes at risk of short term or permanent damage – including cataracts and photokeratitis.
Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness in the world and affect 10 per cent of Australians. Usually developing with age, one fifth of cataracts are caused or made worse by UV exposure. You are able to reduce the risk of cataracts by wearing UV protected sunglasses year round.
Photokeratitis is sunburn of the cornea and is a result of overexposure to UV rays. Common symptoms of photokeratitis include burning and red eyes, headaches and halos around light. Typically photokeratitis can be healed by itself over a couple of days however wearing UV protected sunglasses goes a long way in preventing it.
These eye conditions can be easily avoided by wearing proper, high level UV protected sunglasses year-round. Sunglasses with a category two or higher of UV protection is optimal as these lenses are able to absorb 95 per cent of UV radiation.
So next time you step outside, remember, just because it is chilly and cloudy doesn’t mean you don’t need your sunglasses.
If you are experiencing changes to your vision or are concerned about your eyesight contact us for an appointment.
Our contact lens provider Alcon is experiencing delays fulfilling orders due to a cyber-security incident involving their freight partner, Toll Group. These delays are across their entire network of optical retailers in Australia. We apologise for an inconvenience caused and encourage you to contact your local EyeQ practice for any urgent requirements.
