Blurred vision and headache? Time to get new ones

One of the clearest signs that you need new sunglasses is blurred vision.

Sunglasses are essential to protect them the eyes protects us from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and allows us to see well when it’s sunny. But how often should we change them?

The answer is important to our vision. Good, protective sunglasses are covered with special UV-absorbing filters. With time and prolonged exposure to it, the filters show a gradual decrease in their protective effect. The result can be eye fatigue, vision impairment and, in the long run, various eye diseases (such as cataracts, glaucoma, etc.).

The strength of filters depends to a large extent on factors such as their exposure to heat and sunlight, as well as the frequency of contact with sand and water. Their storage conditions also play a role: it’s one thing to cover them with a special, soft cloth at home, in their own case, it’s another thing to leave them on a piece of furniture or in your bag or in the glove box of a car. developing temperatures are too high.

«To make sure you get the best quality sunglasses possible, it’s important to only buy them from optical stores in the first place. Sunglasses may be considered a fashion accessory, but they are actually a valuable medical device for the eyes and vision. So we have to buy them from the right stores. In addition, they must be absorbent, meaning full protection from UVA and UVB radiation.“, he emphasizes Dr. Anastasios-I. Kanellopoulos, MD, Surgeon-Ophthalmologist, Founder and Scientific Director of LaserVision Institute of Ophthalmology, Professor of Ophthalmology at New York University.

«It is equally important that they are large, so that they cover the area around the eyes as much as possible. On the contrary, their absorption capacity, and therefore their quality, does not depend on the color, price or brand of the lenses.”, adds the professor.

«Regarding the reduction of their protective effect, as mentioned above, there is no specific recommendation for the frequency of change, since many subjective factors play a role. But if one or more of the following apply, you’ll know it’s time to replace them”, Mr. Kanellopoulos notes.

When to change sunglasses

1. Signs of wear and tear

If your sunglasses have scratches, cracks in the lenses, or wear on the frames, you’ve probably kept them for too long and/or haven’t kept them in good condition. In such a case, it is better to consult an optician, because it is probably time to change them. Scratched and cracked lenses distort images and create glare. In addition, they may not provide sufficient UV protection. Check your sunglasses regularly for obvious signs of wear. If the frame is still strong, you can simply change the lenses.

2. Cloudy lenses

If their lenses are cloudy and won’t clear, you should replace the sunglasses. Cloudiness is a clear indication that they are no longer providing adequate UV protection, as their protective filters are likely worn out.

3. They don’t suit you well

If they slide down your nose or are too small that you can see the glare on the sides of the lenses, they are not protecting your eyes enough from UV rays and should be replaced. Also remember that use and perspiration gradually change the shape and quality of the glasses.

4. Pale color

Excessive exposure of the glasses to ultraviolet rays causes the color to fade in the frame of the sunglasses. If you notice that the color is duller or duller than when you bought it, it’s time to replace them.

5. Half-close your eyes often

When wearing your sunglasses outdoors, if you often find yourself half-closing your eyes to read a sign or see something clearly, it’s a sign that the sunglasses aren’t protecting you enough from the sun. So you need a new pair.

6. Your eyes get watery or irritated

If you experience these symptoms after being outdoors for a long time, then your sunglasses are not protecting your eyes well enough. If they had good filters or even polarized lenses, your eyes wouldn’t be so tired. Polarized lenses are suitable for those who spend long hours outdoors (e.g. drivers) because they reduce UV reflections from smooth surfaces (e.g. asphalt, building glass, water, sand, etc.).

7. Blurred vision

This is one of the clearest signs that you need new sunglasses. If you are outdoors during the hottest part of the day (such as at the beach) and your vision becomes blurry, you may have photokeratitis, a condition that can be described as sunburn of the eyes. Photokeratitis is caused by excessive exposure of the eyes to ultraviolet rays. If you are experiencing this, it means your sunglasses are not protecting your eyes.

8. Headaches

If you’re prone to migraines and often get sick after sun exposure, you’re not wearing the right sunglasses. A protective pair of polarized lenses can reduce UV glare and reflections in the eyes, resulting in migraine attacks and headaches.

«In addition to the above indications, it is very important to properly store sunglasses in a protected and cool place. However, research has been published showing that less than half (49%) of adults keep their glasses in a cool place at home when not in use. Almost four in ten (39%) leave them scattered around the house, increasing their wear and tear. But many people keep them in the glove box of their cars, exposing them to extreme temperatures that eventually damage them. In such a situation, sunglasses need to be changed very oftenconcludes Mr. Kanellopoulos.

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