Sunglasses

woman in sunglasses holding surf board

Many people are cheered by a bright, sunny day, but the effect of all that sunlight on the eyes is a less sunny proposition. UV and glare can create a variety of issues, from dangerous "snowblindness" to irreversible disorders that threaten your eyesight. Here are some frequently asked questions about the role of sunglasses in protecting the eyes from harm. If you want to know more about choosing the right sunglasses, call Dr. Gundersheimer at (903) 868-1135 today.

What are UV rays? UV stands for ultraviolet, a band of spectrum invisible to the eye. Ultraviolet light consists of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. UVC rays are stopped in Earth's atmosphere before they reach the eye, but UVA and UVB can both reach the eye and potentially damage it.

How does UV affect unprotected eyes? UV rays can cause proteins inside the lens to become opaque or cloudy, a condition known as cataracts. Cataracts can make interfere with night vision, reduce your ability to see colors, and make reading difficult; they cannot be reversed, only removed. UV exposure can also cause retinal damage, changes in the eye tissues, and a temporary but irritating "sunburn" of the cornea called photokeratitis.

How do I know my glasses will protect my eyes? Choose glasses that claim to block at least 99 percent of UV rays -- UVA as well as UVB. Look for label reading "UV 400," since this designation means that the glasses block UV rays as small as 400 nanometers, providing 100 percent eye protection. Of course you need to protect your eyes from the glare caused by the visible spectrum as well. To accomplish this, select products that block 75 to 90 percent of visible light.

What are polarized lenses? Polarized lenses are specially designed to filter out certain types of glare that tend to radiate upward from horizontal surfaces when sunlight bounces off of these surfaces. They are recommended for tasks such as boating, fishing, skiing, golfing, jogging, and driving. Most polarized lenses will bear a label identifying them as such.

What types of glasses can I choose from? We are able to provide you with a wide range of sunglass options. If you normally wear glasses to correct your eyesight, you may be happy with a non-prescription pair of clip-ons or wraparound glasses that simply fit over your lenses. If you'd rather not wear that much equipment on your head all at once, you can order a pair of prescription "shades," or you can order glasses that darken when exposed to bright light.

What additional types of protection should I consider? If you worry about light, including harmful UV, leaking in through sides or top of your sunglasses, wear a broad-brimmed hat to reduce some of this exposure. If you use prescription eyewear to correct your eyesight, you may also want to think about getting a pair of UV-blocking contact lenses in your prescription. These lenses may be worn alongside a non-prescription pair of sunglasses for optimum eye protection.

For more information on choosing the right sunglasses, contact our office today.

Location

Hours

Monday - Friday:

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Lunch from 12-1pm

1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed

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  • "Always helpful, always friendly, and always professional. I have been using this practice for years and never a complaint. Totally recommend their services."
    Derrick J
  • "From the moment we walked in the office they took great care of my children! I'm very pleased by the time he took and for the exceptional care they all received. When you walk in with 4 kids it can be overwhelming but not at this office. We will not change eye Dr's again!"
    Wesley S
  • "Very professional, thorough. Pleasant, caring staff."
    Patricia F
  • "Dr. Gundersheimer took his time to make sure I felt comfortable with the exam. My glasses were ready sooner than expected. Very satisfied. The staff is great!"
    Cathy W
  • "Dr. Gundersheimer was methodical and took time for explanations. He made me feel like a valued patient...not a number."
    Allen C
  • "Dr. Gundersheimer and his staff are all very friendly and informative. The atmosphere and experience is always pleasant."
    Deryl R
  • "Excellent service! Dr. Gundersheimer always goes above and beyond to take exceptional care of his patients. He and his staff are kind, professional and attentive. Always a pleasant experience! Thank you!"
    Kristina M
  • "A fun atmosphere, kind and helpful staff, and a great doctor! I was very happy with my visit. And my glasses!!"
    Mickinze V
  • "We have used Dr Gundersheimer for years. Always feel confident in our eye exams by him."
    Gene P
  • "Really nice Dr and staff. Wait was a little but I was well worth it !"
    Erin C
  • "I love going to see Dr. Gundersheimer! Not only do I get an eye exam, I get an explanation of what is going on with my eyes and what causes it as well as what to expect in the future with my eyes. He is very thorough in his exam and always makes sure to answer any questions I have."
    Will M
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    Catherine B