At Miller Vision Specialties, we often remind patients that UV protection isn't just a summertime habit. If you’ve ever stepped outside on a bright winter day and found yourself squinting despite the cold, you already know what we’re about to talk about. The sun doesn’t take a vacation in the winter, and neither does ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Whether you're hitting the slopes, walking the dog, or simply driving to work in Greensboro, UV rays can still do damage. That's why we offer a range of protective lenses to make year-round UV protection easy.
How Does the Sun Affect Your Eyes in the Winter?
While we usually associate sunburn and UV damage with hot summer days, winter brings its own challenges. Snow and ice can reflect UV rays, effectively doubling your exposure to them. This intense reflection can contribute to a condition called photokeratitis, essentially a sunburn on your eye's surface, leading to pain, redness, and temporary vision loss.
Even on overcast days, up to 90% of UV rays still pass through cloud cover. That means that whether it’s sunny or not, your eyes are still absorbing radiation that can gradually damage your retina and increase the risk of long-term conditions, such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
The Benefits of Wearing UV Eye Protection Year-Round
Protecting your eyes from UV light isn’t seasonal—it’s essential every month of the year. Let’s break down the benefits of year-round protection.
Helps Prevent Eye Conditions
Extended exposure to UV rays contributes to the development of cataracts, a condition in which the lens of the eye becomes clouded, impairing vision. Sun exposure also plays a role in the development of macular degeneration, a condition that gradually affects central vision. Protective eyewear acts like sunscreen for your eyes, reducing your lifetime exposure and risk.
Reduces the Risk of Photokeratitis
This painful condition is common among individuals who participate in outdoor winter sports. Symptoms can appear within hours of exposure and mimic the sensation of having sand in your eyes. Sunglasses with complete protection from UVA and UVB rays can help keep your eyes safe on the slopes.
Decreases Glare and Eye Strain
Driving during winter can be harsh on your eyes. Low sun angles and reflections from wet roads or snow increase glare. Polarized lenses reduce that glare and improve contrast, making driving safer and more comfortable.
Supports Long-Term Eye Health for Children and Adults
Children’s eyes are more vulnerable to UV damage because their lenses are clearer and allow more harmful UV rays to reach the retina. Encourage your child to wear sunglasses anytime they’re outside, whether it’s sunny, snowy, or cloudy. At Miller Vision Specialties, we offer a range of durable, child-friendly frames designed for everyday wear.
Pairs Well with Your Prescription and Lifestyle
Many of our patients at Miller Vision Specialties opt for Transitions® lenses that darken outdoors and stay clear indoors, providing convenient protection all day long. These lenses are especially helpful in winter when the lighting changes quickly between overcast and sunny skies. We also offer polarized prescription sunglasses to match your specific vision and lifestyle needs.
Protect Your Eyes All Year in Greensboro, NC, with Comfortable, Stylish UV Solutions
UV protection is more than just a summer concern—it's a daily habit that supports your vision now and down the road. At our Greensboro clinic, we’ll help you choose the right sunglasses, Transitions®, or protective lenses that fit your lifestyle and make protecting your eyes easy. Whether you’re out walking around Lake Brandt or driving through the Triad, your eyes deserve protection from the sun year-round.
Book your eye care appointment at Miller Vision Specialties and we'll make sure your eyes stay healthy through every season.
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