Eye 1st Vision Center Reminds Patients to Protect Their Vision This Season

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga., April 03, 2016 -- Eye 1st Vision Center in Sandy Springs is reminding patients about the importance of protecting their vision against harmful ultraviolet rays this summer.

Summer is right around the corner. While most people wouldn’t dream of skipping the sunscreen before heading outdoors, many forget the importance of protecting their sight during the warmer months. This is why Eye 1st Vision Center in Sandy Springs is working to educate patients on the effects ultraviolet rays have on vision.

“The easiest way to protect your eyes against harm is by wearing sunglasses that block out 99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays,” explains Dr. George D. Shida, O.D. “Everyone knows about damage to the skin, but what they don’t think about is photokeratitis. This is essentially sunburn of the eye, which can lead to severe discomfort and even loss of vision.”

Indicators of prolonged UV exposure include a gritty feeling, sensitivity to light and excessive watering. “These symptoms are usually temporary, but they can feel really awful,” he says. “And repeated exposure without protection can lead to the development of cataracts, macular degeneration or a whole host of other eye problems later on in life.”

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), only 40 percent of sunglass wearers look for glasses that provide sun protection. In most cases, optometrists suggest looking at the actual vision benefits of a pair of sunglasses and spending a bit more for quality lenses with a high block rating.

Other ways to protect your sight during the summer include wearing a hat with a wide brim and staying indoors on days with ozone warnings or excessively hot temperatures.

Dr. Gemma Patel, O.D. wants to remind patients that children and teenagers also need vision protection, as this group usually spends the more time outdoors during the summer than adults. “Sunglasses may seem like such a small thing, but teaching your kids the habit of protecting their vision can really make a difference in the long run,” she says.

Eye 1st Vision Center offers a large inventory of both prescription and non-prescription sunglasses to choose from. In addition, they have one of the largest collections of new and popular styles from Oakley—a leader in the prescription eyewear industry.

For more information on protecting your vision health or to find your perfect pair of sunglasses in their optical shop, please contact Eye 1st Vision Center at 404-252-1702.

About Eye 1st Vision Center

Eye 1st Vision center offers Georgia patients a full range of optometry services for better vision health. Located in Sandy Springs, they are easily accessible by residents of Marietta, Brookhaven, Roswell and Atlanta. To schedule an appointment, please call 404-252-1702 or visit http://eye1stvision.com/.

http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/uv-protection?sso=y 

Eye 1st Vision Center, (404)252-1702