Winter sun can be dangerous for eyes

December 3, 2010

With winter approaching quickly, many people are planning either activities to embrace the colder temperatures, such as skiing and snowboarding, or trips to warmer climates to escape freezing temperatures.

Experts say that no matter what type of winter activities individuals take part in, it's important to protect the eyes from the damaging rays of the sun by wearing polarized sunglasses.

Even in the winter months, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the eyes. The Independent reports that UV rays are "most prolific when the atmosphere is very clear - such as on the ski slopes or in the tropics."

"Overexposure to UV rays is quite serious and can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, or, in some cases, skin cancer around the eyelids," said Sarah Hinkley, O.D., the American Optometic Association's (AOA) UV protection expert.

Whether it's cloudy or sunny, summer or winter, the AOA urges Americans to take measures to protect their eyes from the sun's UV rays in order to decrease the risk of eye diseases and disorders.

Sunglasses or protective contact lenses should block 99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B radiation and screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light.