Eye Protection means the right glasses.

SAN FRANCISCO, May 3 /PRNewswire/ -- It's time to let the light in. Just be careful not to let too much in.  Dark sunglasses may actually cause more harm than good if they don't have proper UV protection. When you wear dark sunglasses, your pupils enlarge to allow light in. If your sunglasses don't have proper UVA protection, you may be letting in the sun's harmful rays instead of keeping them out. In recognition of May's designation as UV Safety Month, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (the Eye M.D.s Association) is urging Americans to protect their eyes by wearing sunglasses -- the right kind of sunglasses. The American Academy of Opthalmology, the Eye MD's Association, is urging Americans to protect their eyes by wearing sunglasses -- the right kind of sunglasses (May is designated UV safety month). Studies show that exposure to bright sunlight can increase the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration, both leading causes of vision loss among older adults. The more exposure to bright light, the greater the chance of developing these eye conditions, said Martin Mainster, M.D., Academy spokesperson. Here's how to ensure your eyes are protected: -- Select sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays. Don't be deceived by color or cost. The ability to block UV light is not dependent on the darkness of the lens or the price tag. -- Ideally, your sunglasses should wrap all the way around to your temples, so the sun's rays can't enter from the side. -- In addition to your sunglasses, wear a broad-rimmed hat to protect your eyes. Don't be fooled by a cloudy day. The sun's rays can pass through the haze and thin clouds. -- Even if you wear contacts with UV protection, remember your sunglasses. -- In addition to the damage caused by a lifetime of exposure to bright sun, you need to protect your eyes from acute damage caused by single outings on very bright days. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet light reflected off sand, snow or pavement can damage the cornea, the eye's surface. Similar to a sunburn on your skin, corneal ultraviolet injuries are painful, but usually heal quickly. The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world's largest association of eye physicians and surgeons -- Eye M.D.s -- with more than 27,000 members. For more information about eye health care, visit the Academy's partner Web site at http://www.medem.com.

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