Vital Stats
Your connection to quality healthcare information

UV Safety Month- Protect your eyes, wear sunglasses 
By: Angie Hooks, R.N.

The weather is warm, the days are long and more time is spent outdoors meaning increased time in the sun posing risk to more than just your skin, but to your eyes as well. Most people are aware of the damages UV rays make to the skin, however, most are unaware of the dangers of the effects of UV rays to eyes.

Like your skin, when the eye surface burns, the burn disappears after a couple of days, however, your eyes never recover from UV exposure which can lead to further complications later in life. Studies have shown that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts, damage to retinas, vision loss and growths on the eye including cancer. The sun’s rays can even reflect off of sand, snow and pavement to cause burns to the eye’s surface.

Though it is impossible to stay out of the sun completely, there are things you can do to keep your eyes safe. The following are tips to protect your eyes from the sun:

•    When choosing sunglasses, don’t focus solely on the color or the darkness of the lenses.
•    Be sure the glasses block 100% UV-A and UV-B rays.
•    In addition to your glasses, wear a broad-rimmed hat.
•    Seek shade whenever possible.
•    Even if your contact lenses have UV protection, wear sunglasses.
•    Children are also at risk for UV damage, so be sure to protect their eyes with hats and sunglasses as well.

July is UV Safety Month and it is used to spread the message of the safe way to have fun in the sun. In honor of this observation month, Marion Regional Hospital encourages you to protect your eyes not only this summer, but throughout the year as well.

Vital Stats is a weekly health column provided by the doctors and staff of Marion Regional Hospital.

Marion Regional Hospital has been recognized statewide for its community health initiatives. Located on Highway 76- between Marion and Mullins, Marion Regional Hospital provides the best in medical technology and is home to some of the area’s most advanced medical equipment. For more information call 843-431-2000 or visit us online at www.marioncountymedical.com.