CALGARY SUNGLASSES & SUNWEAR

Sunglasses have been popular with people for years, both for comfort and as a fashion accessory. However as studies and research continue to demonstrate a relationship between UV-A/UV-B exposure and ocular disease, the protection of the long-term health of your eyes is yet another reason to wear sunglasses.

Why Wear Sunglasses?

As there is an association between UVR and eye damage, the eye should be protected from exposure to UVR. Sunglasses should decrease visible light to a comfortable level while blocking the invisible and potentially harmful UVR. The tint of the lens does not indicate the UVR absorbing characteristics of the lens. Good quality sunglasses, particularly, the "wraparound" type, provide the eyes with substantial protection against solar UVR. These sunglasses should be worn by both children and adults. The important points to look for when purchasing sunglasses are detailed below.

When to Wear Sunglasses?

Outdoors, particularly in the following circumstances:

• During Summer. The level of UVR at noon in summer is about three times as high as that for winter. More importantly, the levels of UVB can be as much as ten times higher (which is why sunburn takes such a short time in summer).
• Around noon (1 pm during daylight saving). 70% of the harmful UVB radiation that is received each day occurs within three hours either side of this time.
• On the beach or boating. There are usually few buildings or objects to block out part of the sky, so people are exposed to direct and scattered radiation from the whole sky.
• Skiing at high altitude. Solar UVR increases with altitude and, at 2000 metres (typical of Australian ski fields), can be as much as 30% higher than that at sea level. The high reflection of snow worsens the problem, so that the UVR dose to the eye can be quite large. Consequently, good eye protection while skiing is very important.
• When using medication which may act as a photosensitiser. Some medical treatments involve drugs which make people more sensitive to UVR, so that UVR exposures that would not normally be a problem are sufficient to cause damage.

Mountain View Optometry carries a full line of both prescription and plano sunglasses. Our sunglass selection ranges from good quality $39 UV protecting sunwear to top of the line, prescription designer sunglasses. Stop by either of our two conveniently located Calgary locations to browse our selection and start giving your eyes the protection from UV rays they deserve today!