We all know that light can be damaging to our skin, but did you know that it can be just as dangerous for your eyes? As our lives change and we live longer, our eyes are exposed to more harmful light than ever before. This is because over time, UV rays have a cumulative impact on our eyes. UV light can accelerate eye ageing and the early appearance of cataracts, and it is estimated that around 5 million people worldwide become blind from cataracts annually.
We are also becoming more and more aware of another light source that may be responsible for retinal cell degeneration. Blue-Violet light is mostly emitted by the sun, but also by increasingly popular artificial light sources such as LEDs and digital screens. The average person now spends 7 hours a day viewing screens!
Some scientists estimate that in 30 years, twice the number of people will be affected by cataracts and age-related macular degeneration because of these lifestyle changes. Local opticians Edmonds and Slatter are now recommending to their patients a unique lens innovation called the Eye Protect System, which helps to protect the eyes from both sources of harmful light.
Tim Cole, Dispensing Optician, commented “We should all be aware of how light affects the health of our eyes and make sure we have adequate protection now, rather than waiting until it’s too late and the damage has already been done. It’s not just a case of wearing sunglasses on sunny days – we really ought to protect our eyes on a daily basis. These advanced lenses have protection from harmful light embedded within the lens itself, so unlike similar protective solutions offered to date the lenses are aesthetically clear and do not alter your perception of colours.”
Edmonds and Slatter are inviting anybody interested in the benefits of these lenses to pop into one of their practices in Blaby, Lutterworth or Glenfield. One of their qualified Dispensing Opticians will be happy to speak to you about how this latest innovation might help you.