As we all know, the sun’s UV rays are quite damaging to the skin, and most of us are great about putting on sun block to protect ourselves, but what about our eyes? The sun can cause cataracts, macular degeneration and growths on the eye, some even cancerous. The growths on the eye are called pterygiums, and they can occur in people of all ages, who spend large amounts of time in the sun. Pterygiums grow into the cornea, causing loss of vision. Other diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration occur later in life, but they occur from damage over the years of not protecting the eyes. That is why wearing sun protection, which includes sunglasses and a hat, is important for all ages including babies. So do your eyes a favour and give them the protection they need!

Dr. Nicholas Catchuk, www.iris.ca