An optometrist implores people to stop this common habit as soon as possible

An optometrist implores people to stop this common habit as soon as possible Originally appeared on Parade.

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Whether you have contacts, glasses or a 20/20 vision, it is important to take care of your eyes as you age. Concerns about eye health and vision changes To general, preventive eyes, optometrists or ophthalmologists can not only help with regular exams, but also lifestyle advice. And this summer, an ophthalmologist begs men and women to stop a common habit, especially.

Dr Robert Steinmetz, Od, Faaotell Parade Why this one habit is a bigger error than most people think so and what easy correction is there to enjoy your eye health.

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The only common habit to avoid this summer, according to an optometrist

What error do you need to stop doing as soon as possible (especially with the sun finally withdrawn)? Folding!

“The natural response of your body in bright light is the eyes,” begins Dr. Steinmetz Parade.

And although you can have prescription sunglasses to help prevent folds while you drive or walk in summer, some people need sun protection for different activity: reading.

“When you get into the habit of reading outside for short periods, you develop the habit of damaging healthy tissues, which leads to fine lines, wrinkles and even cataracts,” he warns.

It is quite difficult to remember the sunscreen, snacks and drinks you need for the beach, but grabbing the straight glasses is just as important before directing you.

“Many over -the -counter reading glasses do not offer 100% UV protection”, explains Dr Steinmetz Paradeexplaining that, often, the reading glasses that people take with them leave much to be desired with regard to the protection of the eyes.

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Why is UV protection for your eyes so important

“The emphasis has been increased on a good regulation of skin care products and SPF ratings in recent years-all patients are getting high to buy high quality sunscreen to protect their skin and their loved ones, but they often neglect the most vulnerable area of ​​the face which is thinner skin around the eyes and the eye itself,” said Dr Steinmetz. “Most patients avoid these areas when applying a sunscreen to prevent the feeling of tingling the inevitable combination of sunscreen and sweat that creates a burning lacrimal film and based on chemicals that covers the front of the eye.”

This is an understandable problem to which even optometrists can relate.

“As the father of two young boys, I know the challenges of covering this sensitive area with a sunscreen and the reaction that I get when they involuntarily create this feeling by rubbing their eyes,” he continues. “This is why I always have my children who wear high -quality polarized sunglasses and UV protection such as improved protection.”

This factor is crucial.

“The clear cover before the eye called the cornea is subject to exposure to UV and can be burned in the sun just as easily as other skin cells exposed on the body,” says Dr Steinmetz Parade. “The only way to fully protect the cornea is to wear superior quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection. The problem with many sunglasses on the market is that they are not regulated by the FDA. Things are worse, these inexpensive sunglasses often contain darker shades that allow the pupil to open even more in these shaded conditions.

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Long -term impact

“Aging, combined with long -term exposure to UV light, is the main cause of cataract development,” said Dr. Steinmetz. “We can slow down this process by wearing quality sunglasses outside. In addition to protecting the lens from the eye, the sunglasses also offer protection for the retina, which is a thin complex layer of cells inside the eye. The light must pass through this fabric on the path of the optic nerve so that the brain treats an image.”

“Although UVA and UVB light is not essential to sight, these wavelengths can cause harmful changes in pigmented cells inside the retination and can cause cancer growth inside the eye,” he continues. “This is why it is so important for patients who spend time in the sun to have an annual view examination so that the retina can be assessed for any pigmented change in addition to signs of macular degeneration and glaucoma.”

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Prescription sunglasses compared to sunglasses readers

“As a person at the end of the forties which requires a correction of astigmatism, I appreciate the difference between the high quality UV prescription sunglasses from my office compared to the predetermined power of the readers’ sunglasses”, shares Dr. Steinmetz. “Most patients my age have small amounts of astigmatism and successfully use readers inside for long periods. If patients are comfortable with their high -quality readers inside, they are an excellent candidate for outdoor readers’ sunglasses.”

And how are sunglasses readers different, exactly?

“Readers of sunglasses allow a full field of vision through the lens, which offers a clearer and more comfortable vision,” he explains. “That my patients are in an inclined position or tan on their side, their vision is clear and clear at any angle where their reading equipment is maintained because of the unique visual optics available on the whole lens in their readers of sunglasses.”

Vobs for the eyesA leading brand of unique artistic glasses, explains: “The readers’ sunglasses combine the magnification of reading with sun protection, which makes them perfect for outdoor activities such as reading the pool, beach or gardening.”

But if you do not know if you have to pursue readers of sunglasses or sunglasses on prescription, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your ophthalmologist.

“If a patient is never sure, he should have an examination of full view to receive an appropriate recommendation from an eye care professional,” he explains. “This age group is also more likely for eye conditions threatening visions that can only be detected during a complete examination.”

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Where to buy reader sunglasses

Whether you are at your ophthalmologist or sail online, the most important thing is to search for readers’ sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. Sites like Vobs for the eyes And Increase the grant Take this functionality.

“All VOBS readers’ sunglasses offer 100% UV protection, helping to prevent damage caused by the sun and eye fatigue,” said their website. Their magnification options generally vary from +1.00 to +4.00, and they have a ton of fun styles which can make a daring and confident declaration by reading outside on the porch or at the beach this summer.

Following:

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Source:

• Dr Robert Steinmetz, Od, Faaois the CEO and co-founder of Union Eyes LLCThe co -owner of the Solo Eye Care & Eyewear Gallery in Chicago, and co -founder and director of Icare Advisors, LLC which is a consulting company dedicated to helping the country’s doctors to open cold optometric practices.

An optometrist implores people to stop this common habit as soon as possible appeared for the first time on parade on June 5, 2025

This story was initially reported by Parade On June 5, 2025, where he appeared for the first time.