Protecting your Eyes from the SunWearing UV Protective Eyewear Sunglasses have become a trendy accessory in today’s society. This is good for our eyes, as it reduces the risk of sunlight damage to our eyes. The Australian Medical Association has recommended the new slogan “Slip, Slop, Slap, Wrap” be used. This is in keeping with the tradition of the popular and effective catch phrase, the additional word ‘wrap’ refers to wrap-around sunglasses now recognised as being a necessary for eye protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Ultraviolet (UV) light is invisible radiation coming from the sun consisting of three bands: UVA, UVB and UVC. DNA damage in various tissues of the body due to UV light exposure has been well documented. UVA is absorbed within the lens of the eye, therefore posing a direct threat to the eye. UVB is responsible for the skin damaging and cancer forming properties of UV light whilst also having quite harmful effects on the eyes. Further, it appears that UVB can increase the risk of cataracts. UVC is mostly reflected away by the earth’s atmosphere and does not pose such as threat as UVA and UVB. Sunglasses are essential in blocking out UV light and in reducing the risk of sunlight damage to our eyes. When purchasing sunglasses, look for those that claim they are UVA and UVB protective. Some higher-priced sunglasses contain polycarbonate, which have the potential to block out 100% of the UV rays.
The increasing use of computers in society undoubtedly puts stress and strain on your eyes. Prolonged use of computers can result in a variety of symptoms known as computer vision syndrome (CVS). The majority of people who use computers everyday will invariably suffer symptoms of CVS. Most commonly, computer use is associated with eye strain, eye fatigue, headache, red eyes and burning sensation, pain in or around the eyes, blurred vision, and occasional double vision. In the effort to reduce eye strain associated with computers, it is important to recognise occupational health and safety recommendations for the frequent use of computers: Get an eye exam – see your local eye specialist for an assessment before using computers heavily. Use proper lighting and minimise glare – avoid or reduce excessively bright light coming from inside and out. Also, adjust the brightness of your computer to the surrounding environment. Insist on the use of an anti-glare screen. Blink more often – consciously blinking more often allows you to relubricate your eyes and can help relief symptoms of CVS. Take frequent breaks – preferably, you should take a 10min break every half an hour from the computer to reduce eye strain and other symptoms of CVS. However, if you find that you require more than this you may need to consult an eye care professional. For more information on better health practices for office workers, a good guide may be obtained from ‘Officewise – Guide to Health and Safety in the Office’ from WorkSafe Victoria at www.worksafe.vic.gov.au. |
You need Flash Player 8 and a browser with javascript enabled to view this.
 |