| Most people are aware of the dangers posed by | | | | Squamous cell cancers can also arise in this area. |
| ultraviolet light (UV). They range from sunburns to | | | | UV exposure also speeds up cataract formation, |
| more ominous long-term changes such as skin | | | | requiring cataract surgery at a younger age. |
| cancers. | | | | Furthermore, UV light is believed to play a role in |
| This has helped people to become more aware of | | | | the development of macular degeneration. |
| sun exposure and taking steps to minimize it by | | | | Macular degeneration is a disease that robs people |
| covering up with hats or clothing and using | | | | of their central vision. The macula is the central |
| sunscreens. However, people are often less | | | | region of the retina at the back of the eye and |
| aware of the dangers specific to their eyes. | | | | acts like the film in a camera, detecting the light |
| The skin around the eyes is particularly susceptible | | | | and then transmitting the image back to the brain. |
| given its very thin, fine nature. It will tend to show | | | | The dark layers underneath the retina tend to |
| aging changes with wrinkles creating the crow's | | | | wear out and eventually the retina fails resulting in |
| feet appearance and is also prone to cancers, | | | | vision loss. A quality pair of sunglasses that block |
| most commonly basal cell, but also squamous cell | | | | UVA and UVB light will greatly decrease the |
| and melanoma. | | | | chance of developing any of the above |
| The skin will also lose its elasticity and contribute | | | | complications. |
| to drooping of the lids and form bags around the | | | | People should avoid "cheap" sunglasses that are |
| eyes. | | | | only darkened lenses since they offer a false |
| Additionally, the eye itself can undergo many | | | | sense of security and could actually increase the |
| changes from UV exposure. The filmy covering | | | | risk of developing damaging conditions in the eye. |
| over the white part of the eye can degenerate | | | | The darkened lens in these glasses allows the pupil |
| and form pterygia, which are fleshy growths that | | | | to dilate and then even more dangerous UV light |
| usually extend onto the cornea towards the pupil | | | | can enter into the eye itself. Therefore, with the |
| and covering the iris. | | | | arrival of summer, remember to cover up, use |
| When severe they must be removed surgically. | | | | sunscreen and take care of your eyes! |