Many people move to Florida because of the excellent chances to play outside all year long while others are lucky enough to be born in the state. Whichever group you fall into, it is essential to protect your eyes from the sun all year long when you live in Orlando. Eye cancer, corneal sunburn, cataracts, and pterygium are just some of the damage that you can do if you do not choose to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Protect Your Eyes All the Time
While you will want to protect your eyes all the time, the most damage is likely to occur between 10 AM and 4 PM during daylight savings time. Surprisingly, you also get more UV damage during the late spring and early summer than during the rest of the year. Be particularly careful if your shadow is short because damage occurs much more quickly, but you can still get damage on cloudy or hazy days.
Wear the Right Lenses
It is vital to protect the rays from the sun trying to get into your eyes from all directions. Choose sunglasses that fit tight against your face and cover your entire eye area. Look for options that block light entering from the sides.
Choose the Right Contacts
If you are a contact lens wearer, then you can choose United States Federal Drug Administration Class II blocker contact lenses for general purposes, but you need United States Federal Drug Administration Class 1 blocker contact lenses for the days you spend on the beach as they block about 30% more ultraviolet A rays and about 4% more ultraviolet B rays. If you do not want to go with two different types of contact lenses, consider opting for your contact lenses and a good pair of sunglasses.
Wear a Hat
While it is no excuse for going outside without wearing sunglasses or specially designed contact lenses, you should also wear a hat anytime that you are going out in the sun. Look for a hat that has a brim that is at least 3-inches wide. The brim should curve down so that it fits close to your face. Choose a hat made of fabric offering at least a 50+ UV protection. Good choices often include a straw hat with a fabric lining or a cotton canvas hat.
It is vital that you protect your eyes from the sun. In order to keep your eyes in the best shape, you also need to see your optometrist in Orlando regularly. If you do not have a regular optometrist in Orlando yet or are looking to make a change, then call Eyes of Winter Park. Under the direction of Dr. Francisco José Richardson, this team will work tirelessly to get you the eye care that you need. Contact them today to set up an appointment.