Sunlight has always been known for encouraging the body’s production of vitamin D. This essential nutrient is crucial for immunity and bone health. Studies show that a healthy dose of sunshine can improve mood, focus, productivity and sleep. Interestingly, the sun can also impact your eyes and vision. Continue reading to learn how.
What Are the Benefits of Safe Sun Exposure?
Exposure to natural light has been associated with a reduced risk of nearsightedness or myopia in children and teenagers. Allowing kids to play in parks or recreational areas allows for sun exposure, stimulating dopamine production in the eye. This hormone aids in normal eye development.
Spending time outdoors in the sun can help regulate circadian rhythms or sleep-wake patterns, especially in adults. As you age, your ability to absorb useful wavelengths, like blue light, diminishes, which can disrupt sleeping cycles. Moderate sun exposure can reduce the likelihood of this issue, improving overall well-being.
What Can the Sun’s UV Rays Do to Your Eyes?
The benefits of sunlight come with a caution against overexposure to UV rays. Prolonged direct exposure to the sun can lead to photokeratitis, cataracts or age-related macular degeneration. Eye specialists strongly recommend wearing UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors, especially during the bright midday hours and summer months.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Eyes?
Wear Proper Eye Protection
Look for a pair with complete UVA and UVB protection when shopping for sunglasses. Even when it’s cloudy outside, wear proper eye protection. Also, consider putting on a wide-brimmed hat for added defense against the sun.
Limit Direct Sun Exposure
UV rays are often most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Use a hat or seek shade during these times to reduce direct sun exposure to your eyes.
Educate and Protect Little Ones
Make sure your children are wearing appropriate sunglasses and hats when playing outside. Also, educate your little ones about the dangers of looking directly at the sun.
Leave your eye care needs to Vienna Eyecare Center. Whether you need new eyeglasses or need treatment for an eye condition, we’re here to help. Call us at (703) 938-7633 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.
