Can Sunglasses Prevent Cataracts?

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If you’re worried that you may develop cataracts, you might consider having a cataract evaluation in Champaign, IL. A cataract evaluation can let you know if cataracts are developing or returning, if you’ve had them previously. Cataracts can happen to anyone, but age is definitely a risk factor. However, few people realize that prolonged and/or chronic exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the proteins in the lens of the eye, leading to cataract formation. For this reason, sunglasses are a useful preventative measure that may help prevent cataracts.

How Sunglasses Help

Sunglasses help by blocking out a percentage of the sun’s rays. Some sunglasses even go so far as blocking out 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays, which will certainly minimize the risk of developing cataracts. But not every pair of sunglasses can do this. You need to make sure you buy quality sunglasses, preferably a name brand, with lenses that have been UV-rated.

Choosing the Right Sunglasses

To get the most benefit, look for sunglasses labeled as offering 100% UVA and UVB protection. Polarized lenses can also reduce glare, making it easier to see in bright sunlight, though polarization doesn’t add UV protection. Wraparound styles are particularly useful as they block UV light from entering around the sides of the glasses, offering even more protection. Your eye doctor in Champaign, IL offers quality sunglasses that are trendy and offer the kind of UV protection you need to shield your eyes from the sun’s rays in summer and in winter.

You don’t have to relegate yourself to a future with cataracts. In many cases, cataracts can be avoided, and there are many older people who have never had them. If you have more questions, or would like to book a cataract evaluation, please contact Champaign Eye Professionals today.

Dangers of Wearing Cheap Sunglasses

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When it comes to sunglasses, choosing a brand name or buying from your optometrist in Champaign, IL is the better choice. While sunglasses are a necessity to protect your eyes from UV rays, not all of them offer the same level of protection. Wearing cheap sunglasses poses more dangers than you may realize.

Insufficient UV Protection

The number one purpose of sunglasses is to shield your eyes from the effects of UV rays, which come from the sun. Cheap sunglasses often lack sufficient UV protection, which is applied to lenses with a special coating. It makes sense when you understand that the thicker the coating, the more UV protection is created. But the more coating layers, the more cost to the manufacturer. So it stands to reason that cheap sunglasses will have only the bare minimum in UV coating.

False Sense of Security

When you buy a pair of sunglasses, you may think that darker lenses offer more protection. However, without proper UV coating, these lenses can be more harmful than not wearing sunglasses at all. Dark lenses cause your pupils to dilate, increasing the amount of UV light that enters your eyes. This false sense of security can lead to greater exposure to harmful rays, increasing the potential for eye damage.

Poor Lens Quality

Cheap sunglasses usually have the lowest quality of lenses, which can distort vision. Poor lens quality can cause eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision. These issues can be particularly problematic when driving or engaging in activities that require clear vision. Distorted lenses can even lead to accidents and injuries due to impaired depth perception and reduction in visual clarity.

For a great selection of quality sunglasses in Champaign, IL, visit Champaign Eye Professionals. And remember, you can even get prescription sunglasses so that all your vision needs are met.

What To Look for in Sunglasses for Eye Health

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In a recent blog, we discussed why sunglasses are so important for protecting your eye health. Today, we want to discuss what to look for in a good, protective pair of sunglasses. In addition to looking fabulous, your sunglasses should protect your eyes from damaging UV rays. Here’s how to pick the best shades for your summer eye health:

Always Check the UV Protection

Select sunglasses certified to block 100% of UVA and UVB light from the sun. Some sunglasses have labels that mark “UV absorption” rather than “UV blocking.” In that case, look for labels indicating “UV absorption to 400nm.” Blocking UV radiation from your eyes can prevent damage to your eye lens and cornea, protecting you from many vision-damaging problems like macular degeneration and cataracts.

How Dark is Too Dark?

Just because sunglasses are dark doesn’t always mean they block 100% of the unwanted UV rays. Sometimes, darker glasses can cause extra eye strain because your pupils will dilate too much, causing additional light sensitivity and aggravating circumstances for people who struggle with migraines. Our eye doctor in Champaign, IL says medium-dark sunglasses are sufficient for daily use. Again, the most important thing to look for is UV blocking!

Size Matters

The larger the lens, the more protected your eyes are. Not only do larger lenses block more UV rays, but they can block dust and pollen too, which is great for people with allergies. Wrap-around sunglasses are especially protective.

What About Polarization?

Polarization and UV protection are two totally different things, but you may need both. Polarized lenses are designed to lower excess glare from water, snow, sand, and other bright, reflective surfaces. This is great for activities like boating, fishing, and skiing. That said, polarized glasses are not good for low-light driving or trying to read LCD screens.

Ask Your Optometrist in Champaign, IL

If you have questions about your quest for the perfect pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes this summer, schedule an appointment with us at Champaign Eye Professionals.

How Often Should I Replace My Prescription Sunglasses?

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Prescription sunglasses are a relatively big investment for most people. More than just a pair you pick up at the drugstore, these are carefully calibrated to help you see during the day without exposing your eyes to the sun’s dangerous rays. The general advice from aneye doctor in Champaign, IL is between one and three years, though this is a big enough gap that you should want to know more about the topic. We’ll look at when to replace them, so you can stay safe without breaking the bank.

Your Prescription Changes
It’s going to be pretty tempting to keep wearing yourprescription sunglasses in Champaign, IL if your doctor discovers a relatively minor change in your vision. You may assume that you can see just fine during the daytime with your old pair. However, considering that the lenses may obscure objects in low lighting already, you really shouldn’t take the chance.

Your Sunglasses Are Showing Signs of Wear
The changes to your sunglasses occur very gradually over time, which can make them hard to notice. For example, if you take a closer look at the lenses, you may see that the coating of the sunglasses has worn off entirely, something that you didn’t really take note of while it was happening. If you’ve noticed that you don’t see as well or that you’re getting headaches due to bent frames, it’s probably time for a change.

Find Prescription Sunglasses in Champaign, IL
If you’re wearing prescription sunglasses during critical activities, like driving or biking, it’s exceptionally important that you have a pair that works for you. Whether you’re just tired of the style, you need new lenses, or the frames are shot, visit Champaign Eye Professionals to find a wide range of frames.

Why Sunglasses Are so Important

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When you visit your eye doctor in Champaign, IL, they may ask if you routinely wear sunglasses in sunlight. This seemingly strange question is because sunglasses protect the eyes from all sorts of dangers. If you thought sunglasses were a simple vanity accessory, you should know that wearing them can help preserve your eye health for a lifetime.

How Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes and Vision Health

There are multiple ways in which sunglasses protect eyes and eyesight:

  • Sunglasses provide a barrier between the eyes and environmental hazards, such as dust and airborne debris.
  • Quality, UV-rated sunglasses protect the eyes from UV rays, which exist even on cloudy days. UV rays speed up macular degeneration, so wearing sunglasses can keep your eyes younger and healthier.
  • Sunglasses prevent glare, which has been known to cause motor vehicle accidents. So whether you’re in a car, riding a bicycle, waterskiing or walking down a sidewalk, you’re actually safer from accidents when wearing sunglasses.
  • Sunglasses reduce squinting and thereby help reduce facial wrinkles around the eyes, helping you maintain a youthful appearance.

Choosing the Best Sunglasses

Cheap drugstore sunglasses may not provide the protection you need. Even though they may have a UV-rated sticker, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they offer UV protection across a broad spectrum. In addition, poor lens manufacturing methods can skew vision and damage eyesight.

Your best option for sunglasses is to order prescription sunglasses from your optometrist. That way, you’re assured of quality lenses that adhere to your corrective prescription, and you never have to choose between seeing well and shielding your eyes from UV rays.

Your optometrist offers fashionable and quality prescription sunglasses in Champaign, IL. Contact us today to book your appointment.

Are Sunglasses Necessary in Winter?

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When you think ofsunglasses in Champaign, IL, you may think of bright days under a searing sun. Sunglasses protect against harmful UV rays. They also make an attractive look that almost everyone finds appealing. But sunglasses aren’t just for summer. Find out why you should wear sunglasses year-round when the weather calls for it.

Understanding Winter Sunlight

The winter in Illinois brings shorter days due to the position of the sun and the Earth’s movement. Because the sun is lower in the sky during winter, your eyes are more likely to be exposed to direct sunlight. It could be while you’re driving, walking the kids home from school, or out for a run. And remember, UV rays exist whether it’s a sunny day or an overcast, wintry day. The danger is still there; it’s just less obvious.

Outdoor Activities

If you enjoy being in the snow in Illinois, you have even more need for sunglasses during this time of year. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, almost doubling your exposure as compared to the summer months. In addition, the snow reflects those rays and can cause what’s known as snow blindness. This phenomenon is just as much—if not more—harmful than a sunburn.

Comfort and Eye Health

The dry air and cold wind in winter act as irritants to the eyes. Sunglasses act as a barrier, helping to keep cold wind and dry air from drying out the eyes. They also help to reduce strain against the winter elements, helping to keep your eyes more comfortable while you enjoy all the outdoor snow activities you and your family enjoy.

Come to visit us to find an attractive pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes. YourChampaign, IL, optometrist has a large selection of sunglasses to suit your style, taste, and budget.

Do Sunglasses Need to be UV-rated?

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Sunglasses are much more than a fashion statement. They can help protect your eyesight, reduce the chances of developing macular degeneration, and help keep you safe from poor vision due to the sun’s glare. There are lots of sunglasses available, so the question is, do you have to buy sunglasses that are UV-rated, or will cheaper sunglasses suffice?

How UV-rated Sunglasses Protect Vision

The sun emits UV (ultraviolet rays) rays, which are harmful to the eyes. Ultraviolet rays are invisible to the naked eye, yet pose a threat to your eyesight in the form of cataracts, macular degeneration, photokeratitis, and more. UV-rated sunglasses block this light, keeping it from reaching your eyes.

How to Choose Sunglasses

Sunglasses will carry a sticker or label indicating whether they are UV-rated. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays for optimal protection. If you buy your sunglasses in Champaign, IL, at your optometrist’s office, you can be sure of getting premium lenses that will protect your eyes from damage. You can also get prescription sunglasses that offer the additional benefit of vision correction.

Note that if you are buying sunglasses elsewhere, don’t assume they’re UV-rated just because they have dark lenses. UV protection in lenses requires a special coating. Without it, dark lenses may look good, but they won’t give your eyes any more protection than if you didn’t wear sunglasses at all.

Added Benefits of UV-rated Sunglasses

Finally, there’s the added benefit of choosing UV-rated sunglasses. These special lenses will not only offer protection to your eyes; they also keep damaging UV rays from reaching the delicate skin around your eyes where wrinkles often appear.

To shop for lenses today, book an appointment or come on into your Champaign, IL optometrist office and see the wide range of options available.

3 Tips to Find Better Sunglasses

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All sunglasses in Champaign, IL, offer some degree of protection from the rays above, but that doesn’t mean that all brands and models are created equally. We’ll look at what the differences are and what you should look for when you’re selecting your next pair.

Look for UV Protection

If it’s a reputable brand, it’s going to say what you can expect in terms of UV protection. Choose a pair that protects against UVA and UVB light. If you’re concerned about your current sunglasses (maybe you want to keep them for variety), there are optical shops with light meters that will test just how much of a barrier the sunglasses provide. Bigger sunglasses do not necessarily offer better protection from UV rays.

Don’t Choose Based on Lens Color

It’s worth noting that lens color is not necessarily a factor here. Just because you choose the darkest lenses that you can find doesn’t mean that you’ll be guaranteed better protection. Checking the label, assuming it’s from a trustworthy source, is the best way to ensure your eyes are covered. In addition, polarized lenses may or may not offer UV protection (you’ll have to look for a brand that guarantees UV filtering in addition to polarization).

Talk to an Optometrist in Champaign, IL

The right optometrist in Champaign can tell you more about what kinds of sunglasses will be best for your eyes. At Champaign Eye Professionals, we help each patient choose based on more than just how well the frames complement their sense of style. While different patients will be more at risk for sun damage, the reality is that the adverse effects of the rays above will accumulate over time. If you don’t want to take chances, schedule an appointment with us today.

winter-eye-care

4 Winter Eye Care Tips

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As the weather turns colder, it’s important to take care of your eyes. Changes in weather can impact your eye health and comfort. Knowing how to ensure that your eyes will stay healthy this winter is important. As your eye doctor in Champaign, IL, we can help! Here’s what to know about how to take care of your eyes as the weather gets cool.

1. Use Over the Counter Eye Drops

Sometimes winter weather can lead to dry eye, a condition that occurs when the eyes don’t make enough tears. Using over the counter eye drops can help alleviate discomfort from dry eye. Eye drops are sold in pharmacies, convenience stores and grocery stores. Keep eye drops on hand to keep your eyes comfortable if you start experiencing the effects of dry eye.

2. Wear Sunglasses

Glare on snow can make seeing difficult when you’re driving and participating in outdoor activities. Don’t put your sunglasses away, just because it’s winter! Keep your sunglasses with you in a case, and put them on when spending time outside.

3. Protect Yourself from Dry Eye

Aside from using over the counter eye drops, there are other things you can do to protect yourself from dry eye. Run a humidifier in your home to keep the air moist and comfortable. Avoid using your blow dryer on high heat; use a cooler setting. If you continue to experience the effects of dry eye, talk to your eye doctor.

4. Make Your Annual Eye Appointment

If you wear corrective lenses, you should see the eye doctor on a regular basis to get an updated prescription. If you haven’t yet been to the eye doctor for your routine eye exam in Champaign, IL, contact Champaign Eye Professionals to make an appointment.

Is It Important to Wear Sunglasses in Winter?

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When you think of summer, do you think of sunglasses? For many people, sunglasses are a symbol of sunny summer weather. Despite this association, sunglasses need to be worn all year round. Knowing the benefits of sunglasses important, and can help you make good choices for your eyes. In this article, we’ll discuss why you should wear sunglasses in Champaign, IL, even when the weather is cold outside.

What Are the Benefits of Sunglasses?

Sunglasses have many benefits, including:

  • Block glare. Glare can affect your eyes all year round, causing challenges while you’re on the road and participating in outdoor activities. Wearing sunglasses can make driving safer and easier, no matter what time of year it is.
  • Protection from UV rays. UV rays can do damage to your eyes in many ways. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can put you at risk for cataracts, and too much exposure on a bright sunny day can even cause your eyes to become sunburned. Sunglasses can help protect you from these problems.
  • Protection from eye strain. Exposure to bright lights can cause eye strain, which can be uncomfortable. Wearing sunglasses can prevent eye strain.

Why Should You Wear Sunglasses in Winter?

Sun shines all year round. In addition, snow can reflect sunlight in a way that can cause eye strain and glare. Wearing sunglasses is one of the best ways to protect yourself from these problems.

Do You Need Prescription Sunglasses? Contact Your Eye Doctor

If you have prescription lenses, then you should have prescription sunglasses. At Champaign Eye Professionals, we have a wide range of glasses frame options. Need new prescription sunglasses? Call us to make an appointment with your eye doctor in Champaign, IL.