Protect your eyes this July

July 1, 2010

We are now mid-summer and the sun is out in full force. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) is reminding everyone to keep their eyes protected from harmful UV rays, ParentYourParents.com reports.

July is UV Safety Month and with that come tips on how to keep your eyes safe and prevent damage from being done.

Research has shown that prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays may eventually lead to the development of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, which may lead to vision loss or total blindness.

The AAO recommends investing in a pair of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eye health. Sunglasses should block out 99 to 100 percent of UV rays. The sun is most intense between 10 am and 2 pm, so it is recommended to cover up if venturing out during that period.

One thing to keep in mind is that the glare reflected off of surfaces like water, snow or sand is also very intense and may be harmful to the eyes as well. Polarized lenses are recommended for those involved in outdoor athletic activities.