The Good Life
Summers in Michigan are so amazing that we tolerate the winters. It is hard to beat no school, sunshine, warm weather, cookouts, hiking, days at the beach/lake, and pool parties. It’s definitely the good life and while living the good life, we wanted to make sure you take action to keep your family’s eyes safe and healthy this summer!
UV Protection
When it comes to the summer sunshine and days spent outside soaking up rays and working on your tan, there is no shortage of information on the need for sunscreen and staying hydrated. Believe it or not your eyes are also affected by UV radiation from the sun. If we do not protect our eyes, we are leaving ourselves and our children vulnerable to cataracts, macular degeneration, and yellow spots that form on the whites of our eyes call pinguecula. Additionally, excessive UV exposure can lead to UV keratitis, which is essentially sunburn on your eyes.
Protection does not come in the form of sunscreen, but the same principle applies: reduce UV exposure. UV rated sunglasses are the easiest option. These can be prescription or non-prescription and polarization aids in clarity, but it is not necessary. Now, if you have ever tried to get a toddler to wear sunglasses, you know it is about as easy as eating soup with a fork! In the instances where sunglasses do not seem to be a viable option, wearing a hat or visor can be just as effective. Remember limiting direct sunlight exposure to the eyes is the goal.
Practicing these habits also reduces the risk of eyelid skin cancers down the road.
Article provided and sponsored by Dr. Lillie at Allendale Family Vision. Reach out to them and make your appointment today!
