ULTRAVIOLET DAMAGE

More harmful ultraviolet radiation is able to reach the surface of the earth today due to diminishing ozone. It has been postulated that 80%-90% of the sun-related damage that may lead to skin cancers or melanomas occur prior to age 18. The ultraviolet radiation culprits responsible for this damage are known as UV-A and UV-B. It has been long known that applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 helps to protect from this type of solar assault from UV-A and UV-B ultraviolet rays. It is also recommended to wear sunglasses that block out 99% to 100% of UV-A and UV-B radiation. And because sun damage is cumulative this type of eye protection should be worn year-round and is especially emphasized in sports such as skiing, mountain climbing and hiking. For children sun-protection is especially important because they may be more susceptible to the suns harmful rays.

At Andover Eye Care, we feature Maui Jim Sunglasses that have a patent on their sunglass lenses. Maui Jim offer the most complete protection available, by BLOCKING 100% of the harmful UV-A and UV-B rays. The polarized plus patented lens features a polarized lens with a 9-layer process of anti-glare, scratch-guard, polarized filter, bi-gradient mirror coating and a waterproof coating.

ANTI-REFLECTIVE COATING

Anti-reflective coating on spectacle lenses means they reduce the glare that causes eye fatigue. By sharpening visual performance, anti-reflective coatings will help you see with more clarity. Clarity with less glare helps your eyes feel less tired; especially when spending long hours in front of a computer screen or under harsh fluorescent lighting. Also, driving at night is easier with anti-reflective lenses because they reduce glare caused by bright oncoming headlights. Which not only helps you feel better, it helps provide a safer drive.

EYE SAFETY

Eye injury is the leading cause of blindness in children in the United States. Each year millions of eye injuries occur; often during sports and hobby activities. However, 90% of these injuries could be prevented. Injuries can be prevented through the use of sport goggles. These goggles not only provide protection from injury but from ultraviolet light as well and can be fit with your prescription. Certain tints can increase your contrast levels which may help improve your game as well. Polycarbonate lenses, which meet ANSI (American National Safety Institute) standards for impact resistance and a durable frame design is your best choice.

SPORTS EYEWEAR AND CHILDRENS EYEWEAR

Varied activities require a change of eyewear. Prescription sports eyewear may include golf, bicycling, tennis, swimming, raquet ball, tennis, skiing and motorcycling to name a few. Depending on the activity different styles, lens tints or colors, polarization and other lens features would be chosen to cusomize your sports eyewear.

All childrens lenses are made out of a polycarbonate material. Polycarbonate lenses meet or exceed the requirements of the eye protection and impact resistance standards. Also, polycarbonate lenses are lighter in weight. Children or adults involved in sports should also wear a safety goggle to protect their eyes from injury. Culprits of the most preventable eye injuries include baseball, field hockey and racquetball.

COMPUTER EYEWEAR

Computer related vision needs are determined on an individual basis. Often times a specific prescription is required for use at the computer, usually with tints or anti reflective coating to help reduce eye fatigue and strain at the computer.

NO-LINE BIFOCALS OR PROGRESSIVES

Progressive lenses (also known as no-line bifocals) utilize true optical asphericity. They provide excellent vision at all distances allowing for more complete visual freedom. The newest and best Varilux lens is called the Panamic, the more widely known Varilux is known as the Varilux Comfort.

CONTACT LENSES

There are many different types of soft and rigid contact lenses for example:

• Bifocal or progressive contact lenses
• Spherical disposable contact lenses
• Daily disposable contact lenses
• Toric or Astigmatic contact lenses
• Colored or cosmetic contact lenses
• Aspheric contact lenses

The best way to determine which contact lens is best for you is to be 'fitted'. A contact lens fitting includes a comprehensive eye examination with the doctor and a discussion about which contact lens would best serve your individual needs if you are a good candidate for contact lens wear. Contact lenses are medical devices regulated by the FDA and certain hygienic precautions are discussed and detailed with the doctor at your contact lens fitting.