Can Sunglasses Help Prevent Macular Degeneration?

The lens of your eye and its retina are both vulnerable to damage from oxidation. And oxidation can happen as a result of exposure to free radicals, such as the ultraviolet rays produced by the sun. But by wearing sunglasses that block these UV rays, you can help protect your eyes from damage. This, in turn, may help you avoid developing conditions such as macular degeneration as you age. Your optician in Portland, OR, can tell you more about the many benefits of wearing the right type of sunglasses for eye health.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Your macula is located in the center of the retina, and it’s responsible for your central, or pinpoint, vision. When damage occurs to the macula, it becomes difficult to drive, read, or recognize the fine features of a face.

Macular degeneration happens because of damage to the macula, and it’s extremely common in the United States, especially among those over the age of 50. Wearing sunglasses with 100-percent UV protection won’t completely eliminate your chances of developing this disorder, but it may lower your risk.

What Causes Macular Degeneration?

Usually, macular degeneration is age-related. In fact, you may hear your vision specialist refer to age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, during your routine eye exam. The macula may become thinner, or abnormal blood vessels may begin to grow beneath the macula. Either circumstance can cause changes to your central vision.

You may be more prone to developing this condition if:

• Other people in your family have it.
• You smoke.
• You have high blood pressure.
• You’re over the age of 50.
• You’re overweight.
• You eat a high-fat diet.

In other words, lifestyle can be a big contributor to AMD. Making small changes to the way you eat and live may help you avoid damage from AMD. Wearing the right type of eye protection may also be helpful.

UV Protection in Portland, OR

If you’re looking for protection from UV rays in Portland, OR, the professionals at Asterix EyeWear can help. At Asterix Eyewear, our friendly and experienced team are happy to sit down with you to discuss the many benefits of prescription sunglasses, especially those that block 100-percent of the sun’s harmful, UV rays. Schedule an appointment today.