PARENTS are urged to think of the clearer, bigger picture and shelter their children’s eyes from bright summer rays.
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Professional association Optometry Australia is warning our eyes, like our skin, can get sunburnt – and children are most at risk because their lenses are clearer, allowing more ultraviolet rays deep into their eyes.
A survey by The Courier the past two days revealed few children wore sunglasses at popular summer playspaces, including water parks.
OA’s resident optometrist Luke Arundel said sliding on a pair of sunglasses should be right up there with remembering to slip, slop and slap this summer. Mr Arundel also said setting good eye care habits early could help stamp out cumulative problems caused by sun exposure later in life.
“We believe that while many parents and schools will not let children go outside without sunscreen or protective sun clothing, they are not putting enough emphasis on sun damage to children’s eyes,” Mr Arundel said.
“Wearing a hat simply doesn’t offer enough protection. The simple solution is to always encourage children to wear sunglasses when outdoors. Adults can also become a role model in cutting down sun-related eye conditions by always wearing sunglasses outdoors.”
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UV rays can inflict photokeratitis, which like sunburn is usually felt after damage was done. Symptoms include pain, redness, blurriness, tearing, swelling and sensitivity to light.
Prolonged UV exposure is also linked to conditions like cataract, macular degeneration, pterygium (a fleshy growth over the front of the eye) and even eye cancers.
OPSM Central Square store manager Mark Newitt said optometrists could assess eye health and it was important for children to get their eyes checked before starting school to ensure they did not start behind the class. A visit could also teach children how to look after their eyes.
OPSM advises to choose sunglasses marked category 4 or 5 (sunglasses sold in Australia must state this level) because Australian Sunglasses Standards state they absorb almost all UV radiation.
Wearing a broad-brimmed hat and good sunglasses can reduce UV radiation exposure to the eyes by up to 98 per cent, according to Australian Sunglasses Standards.
KEEP AN EYE ON THESE SUNGLASSES PROTECTION TIPS
- Novelty or toy sunglasses with coloured lenses in category 0 or 1 should be avoided.
- Polarised lenses are great for cutting reflected glare and are useful for the beach, fishing and driving.
- Close-fitting, wraparound styles with thicker arms help block glare entering the eyes from the side of the head.
- It's never too early for children to wear sunglasses so get them in the habit of doing so while they’re young. Sunglasses with an elasticated band around the back can help to keep them in place.
- If older children are having trouble wearing sunglasses, the next best thing is a broad brimmed hat – but note that hats stop only around 50 per cent of UV rays from entering the eyes.
- For young babies, a cover over their pram will help protect their skin and eyes.
- Wear sunglasses in the shade or when it’s bright but cloudy.