Northcenter Eye Care

Know the Effects of UV Exposure to the Eyes

June 27, 2016

While exposure to UV rays from the sun happens year-round, summer is the time when most people ramp up their UV protection. While a majority of people are concerned about UV exposure to the eyes (75 percent, according to a survey from The Vision Council), fewer understand the specific short- and long-term risks to their eye health.

Short-term effects of UV exposure

Photokeratosis, or sunburn of the cornea. Only 31 percent of those surveyed know unprotected UV exposure can lead to sunburned eyes. The symptoms — itching, redness, pain, and blurred vision — are temporary, but the condition can be so debilitating as to last for up to three days.

Pterygium. This condition is sometimes called “surfer’s eye,” as it is linked to time spent in sunny, windy and sandy environments like the beach. Characterized by a growth on the surface of the eye often near the nose, it is usually benign. If it is large enough, though, it can affect the shape of the cornea and lead to astigmatism.

Long-term effects of UV exposure

Cataracts. One of the most common eye health issues, cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss in people over age 40. According to Prevent Blindness America, more than 20 million people in the U.S. have cataracts. Unfortunately, only 26 percent of those surveyed by The Vision Council are aware of the link between UV exposure and developing cataracts.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Slightly fewer of those surveyed (21%) know that UV exposure increases the risk for AMD. In fact, research shows that exposure earlier in life contributes more significantly than in later years. Early detection and treatment can slow the progression of this disease, which is the leading cause of blindness in people age 60 and older. Studies support the idea that protecting your eyes from UV exposure can help.

Cancer of the eye, eyelid or surrounding skin. Cancer of the eyeball is rare, but skin cancer around the eye is not. In fact, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 10 percent of all skin cancers are on the eyelid. Though most are the malignant basal cell carcinoma, surgery for removal is required.

As you think about your own plan for protecting your eyes from UV exposure, keep in mind that we can help select the best sunglasses to suit your needs. Through June 30, we are offering 20% off sunglasses, which should make finding the right pair easier.

Classic features for this season’s trendy sunglasses

March 31, 2016

Eyewear on the runway at Spring 2016 Fashion Week in New York may have been big, bold and colorful, but here in Chicago form and function are important when choosing a pair of sunglasses. We love our warm weather and spend plenty of time outdoors once it has arrived. Here are some tips on what classic features to look for when purchasing a new pair of shades for the season.

Look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Some will be labeled “UV 400,” which means they block all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. All of the sunglasses we sell offer full protection for your eyes.
Blue-blockers and sunglasses with yellow lenses heighten color contrast for a distinct image. These are popular for activities like skiing and boating, where sharp vision is critical. Though they are called blue-blockers, these sunglasses typically have amber lenses.
If you are serious about a particular sport or activity, performance sunglasses offer various lens color options that address specific needs. For example, brown lenses provide nice contrast on green golf courses. Because they are constructed of polycarbonate, they are also lightweight, non-slip and impact-resistant.
Gradient lenses that are darker at the top of the lens and gradually become lighter at the bottom are a good choice for driving, as sunlight is strongest coming from the top of your lenses.
Don’t forget the kids! As with your skin, UV damage to your eyes is cumulative, which means that starting young with sunglasses can have an impact on future eye health issues.

Tips for keeping summer fun easy on the eyes

June 16, 2015

Summer is a beautiful season here in Chicago, but it can be hard on the eyes. Following are some common summertime eye health issues and ways to avoid them.

After-swim irritation. If you hit the pool, make sure you wear goggles or a mask during swims or water play. Chemicals used in pools can cause a high level of discomfort. Even “natural” water environments, like lakes and ponds, can contain irritants that affect the eyes.
Harmful UV rays. We recommend wearing sunglasses year round and especially in the summer. Longer days and more time spent outdoors leads to greatest exposure to UV rays, which has been linked to the development of eye diseases like cataracts and AMD. In the short term, lack of protection can result in photokeratitis, which is sunburn of the eye. Symptoms are pain, redness and a feeling that something gritty is in the eye.
Fireworks. According to the American Academy of Opthalmology, 2,000 fireworks-related eye injuries happen every year, and one third end up causing permanent damage. Leave the fireworks to the professionals, and if you are one, protect your eyes with safety goggles.
Insect bites. Insect bites around the eye can cause swelling and irritation, often more so than on other parts of the body, as skin around the eye is more tender. Never use any products to prevent or soothe insect bites that aren’t recommended for use around the eye. Use a cold compress to decrease swelling. Call our office if you are concerned about any insect bites near the eye. We have several options for treatment.
Sports-related injuries. Summer sports such as baseball, water sports and racquet sports have some of the highest rates of eye injury. If you or someone in your family participates in any of these, talk to us about options for protective eyewear. We can counsel you on what works best for specific sports. Keep in mind that 90 percent of sports-related eye injuries are estimated to be preventable.

As always, please get in touch with us for eye health concerns you have over the summer or any time of year.

* Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos/zirconicusso

Decrease your risk of cataracts this summer

June 2, 2015

One of the most common eye health problems people encounter is cataracts. It is the leading cause of blindness worldwide, and even in the U.S. where we have effective treatment options, more than half of all Americans will have cataracts by the time they turn 80.

June is National Cataract Awareness Month. As with any health issue, there are misconceptions about cataracts, including that it is only a concern for elderly people. The truth is there are risk factors for developing cataracts at a younger age, and the earlier you start taking good care of your eyes, the better your chances of avoiding cataracts.

Wear your sunglasses. Studies indicate that exposure to harmful UV rays is linked to the development of cataracts.
If you smoke, stop. Smoking is linked to so many health issues, including cataracts.
Protect your eyes from injury and disease. Make sure you have an annual check-up to stay on top of eye health issues, and wear protective lenses any time your eyes are at risk during sports, on the job or with other activities.
Stay on top of your health. Other diseases such as diabetes and hypertension increase your risk for developing cataracts.

One of the most challenging aspects of treating cataracts is that symptoms often aren’t noticeable in the early stages. Regular eye exams are critical for early detection. Some symptoms to be aware of are:

Cloudy or blurry vision.
Faded colors.
Glare. Light from headlights, lamps and sunlight may appear too bring. A halo effect may appear around the lights.
Night vision problems.
Double vision or multiple images in the eye.

If you need to schedule your annual exam, summer is a great time to do it. If you have questions about the level of UV protection your sunglasses provide, we are happy to take a look. As always, please get in touch with any questions or concerns you have about your eyes.

Warm weather is good for your eyes

May 18, 2015

Photo courtesy of Ray-Ban

Warm weather benefits more than just our moods after a long winter and chilly spring. Research shows that it is also good for our eyes to go outside.

Recently Dr. Siegel attended a seminar presented by the Illinois College of Optometry on strategies for addressing the progression of myopia. One topic that really stood out was the difference in rates of myopia in populations with increased exposure to the outdoors versus those confined indoors for a greater part of the year.

For example, the incidence of myopia in people in their twenties and thirties in the U.S. is 36 to 44 percent. In Canada, it is 72.4 percent. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of seven cross-sectional studies published in 2012 indicates that time spent outdoors can be an effective strategy for addressing myopia.

More recent research backs this up. Last year a study of more than 1,300 young adults (ages 19 to 22) in Australia was published that showed further support of an inverse association between outdoor activity and myopia. In other words, higher levels of time spent outside is correlated with lower levels of myopia.

Though it is good to be outside, for many reasons, be mindful of UV exposure. Research does not indicate that there is any reason to leave the house without your sunglasses. This is a great time to make sure yours provide 99 to 100 percent protection from UVA and UVB rays. All sunglasses at Northcenter Eye Care meet this criteria, and we have a great selection for the upcoming warm months.

As always, if you have any questions about your eye health, please feel free to call, email or message us on Facebook.