Why Sun Safety Matters — Especially for Those at Risk of Glaucoma
- Lifeview Glaucoma Center
- Jun 20
- 3 min read
Protecting Your Eyes from UV Damage
When you think about sun protection, you probably picture sunscreen and hats. But your eyes are just as vulnerable as your skin. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can harm delicate eye structures, increasing the risk of several sight-threatening conditions — including those linked to glaucoma.
At Lifeview Glaucoma Center, we help patients protect their vision by offering expert guidance, early detection, and access to the best products for UV eye protection.
How UV Radiation Affects Eye Health
UV rays come in two harmful forms:
UVA rays penetrate deep into the eye and can contribute to aging-related eye damage.
UVB rays affect the front of the eye and can cause immediate injuries like corneal sunburn (photokeratitis).
Conditions Linked to UV Exposure
Cataracts — UV exposure speeds up clouding of the lens, making cataract formation more likely. Cataracts can complicate glaucoma care by obscuring vision and making intraocular pressure (IOP) monitoring more challenging.
Macular Degeneration — Damage to the central retina can impact sharp, detailed vision.
Pterygium — Growth on the eye’s surface that can distort vision and may require removal.
Photokeratitis — A painful “sunburn” of the eye, leading to red, irritated, and sensitive eyes.
Possible contribution to glaucoma-related damage — While UV exposure doesn’t directly cause glaucoma, it can exacerbate conditions like cataracts and oxidative stress that may complicate glaucoma diagnosis and management. UV damage can also harm parts of the eye important for fluid drainage, potentially affecting eye pressure regulation.
Why UV Protection is Crucial if You Have or Are at Risk for Glaucoma
If you have glaucoma — or are at higher risk due to family history, age, or other factors — protecting your eyes from UV rays becomes even more critical.
UV exposure can worsen coexisting eye conditions (e.g., cataracts), making glaucoma harder to monitor and manage.
Oxidative stress from UV light may contribute to damage of the optic nerve over time.
Glaucoma medications and surgeries may increase light sensitivity, making UV protection essential for comfort and safety.
How to Protect Your Eyes from UV Damage
Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays
Select wrap-around frames or styles that fit closely to reduce side exposure.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat
This helps block direct sunlight and reflected rays.
Use protection even on cloudy days
Up to 80% of UV rays still get through clouds.
Ask about UV-protective lenses or contact lenses
Some clear lenses and contact lenses can help shield your eyes without affecting vision quality.
How Lifeview Glaucoma Center Helps Protect Your Eyes
At Lifeview Glaucoma Center, we don’t just monitor and manage glaucoma — we help protect your vision in every way possible.
Tailored Eye Protection Plans - We assess your individual needs, lifestyle, and glaucoma status to recommend the most effective UV protection strategies.
Access to the Best Protective Products - We know which sunglasses, lenses, and coatings truly protect against harmful UV rays — and which fall short. Whether you need prescription sunglasses, UV-filtering lenses, or specialty contacts, we’ll help you choose what’s right for you.
Comprehensive Eye Health Monitoring - Our advanced imaging and diagnostic tools allow us to track any UV-related damage alongside your glaucoma care — so nothing is overlooked.
Education and Preventive Care - We’ll guide you on how to build UV safety into your daily habits, from the right protective gear to when and how to use it.
Partner with Lifeview to Protect Your Vision
Your eyes deserve year-round protection — especially if you’re living with or at risk for glaucoma. Let Lifeview Glaucoma Center be your partner in safeguarding your sight.
👉 Call us today to schedule an appointment and learn how to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays while staying on top of your glaucoma care.
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