UV protection

Did you know that UV radiation is also present when the sun is not shining? For example, UV radiation can be very high even on cloudy days. Since your eyes are a valuable asset, it is important to protect your eyes against UV radiation.

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I never wear sunglasses. Then why don't I have any problems?

The effects of UV radiation on the cornea are usually not immediately noticeable. Only later in life do you have to deal with the consequences. To maintain good vision for as long as possible, it is important to take good care of your eyes from a young age. For example, by wearing good sunglasses. With snow blindness (welding eye), your cornea becomes inflamed and you will notice the consequences of the UV radiation within a few hours.

Do I also have to wear sunglasses in the Netherlands?

In the Netherlands, UV radiation is lower than around the equator. For example, on holiday in Southern Europe the radiation is higher than in our own country. However, UV radiation can also increase significantly in our country. In any case, wear sunglasses in the summer between 12 noon and 3 pm. UV radiation reflects on sand, water and snow and the intensity is higher at high altitudes. Extra caution is therefore required on the beach, on the water and in the mountains (especially in the snow).

When is UV radiation highest?

UV radiation is highest in the summer months, between 12 noon and 3 pm. The UV radiation increases as the sun rises higher. As a result, radiation varies per season and time of day. UV radiation is highest in summer, between 12 and 3 p.m. The temperature has no influence. The amount of moisture, cloud cover and dust in the air do have an influence. Just like the amount of ozone. The ozone layer protects against UV. You can view the predicted sun strength per day on the KNMI website.

Why do children's eyes need extra protection against UV radiation?

Children are more vulnerable to a lot of light and UV radiation. Their pupil is larger and their eye lens contains less protective pigment than that of adults. Without proper protection, too much sunlight can even lead to permanent damage to the eyes. Good sunglasses are therefore very important for children. The younger the child, the more vulnerable the eyes. It is therefore important to be careful, especially with babies. Their faces should remain in the shade at all times and it is advisable to protect their eyes with good sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat.

Eye damage due to excessive UV radiation

Do you regularly suffer from dry, itchy or watery eyes? There is a good chance that too much UV radiation is the culprit. To prevent permanent eye damage, it is important to be alert to your complaints.

Want to know more? You can read it in this article, where Oogwereld's optometrist Timo Zweers talks about preventing eye damage due to UV radiation.

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