Sunglasses…not just for looking cool

You know that when you have a sunburn on your skin, it hurts and lasts for a few days or maybe even weeks. UV rays, the aspect of sunlight that causes sunburn, also affects your eyes. Damaging effects from sunlight have been linked to eye conditions including macular degeneration, cataract, and pterygium. It is important to wear sunglasses when you will be active in sunlight, especially when on the water. Water reflects sunlight and increases its UV effect. When selecting sunglasses, choose a pair that has a label stating its lenses will absorb UV rays to best protect your eyes. The United States Environmental Protection Agency and the National Weather Service teamed up to create a scale to measure the UV index. The scale ranges from 1-2 on the mild side to 11+ on the extreme side. Input your zip code in the box on this page to find out what the UV index is today for where you are, and put on those sunglasses and sunscreen when you go out!