Ultraviolet sunlight, household chores can put eyes at risk

Sunlight's ultraviolet rays can damage some tissues in the eye, a U.S. eye expert says. Rachel Bishop, a eye doctor at the National Eye Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health, says sunlight's ultraviolet rays can damage some tissues in the eye. "It can lead to changes that produce a great deal of discomfort on the surface of the eye," Bishop said in a statement. "We understand now that it can lead to increased rates of cataract." Bishop recommends sunglasses marked for at least 99 percent protection against potentially harmful ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays. These ultraviolet rays can also raise the risk of skin cancer, so covering your eyes works like covering your skin -- to give you the benefit of good times outside while reducing your risk of serious trouble later, Bishop said. In addition, Bishop said everyday chores such as lawn mowing, car repairs and household improvements are the largest cause of eye trauma and everyone should buy a pair of safety goggles to keep debris away from eyes while gardening.