Medical providers who work in areas where they may be exposed to levels of radiation should take precautions and protect their eyes. It is quite common to see nurses, technologists, doctors and radiologists protecting themselves with leaded aprons and screens, but it is equally important that they use eyewear as radiation protection as well.
Exposure
Constant exposure to radiation as a function of a medical provider’s job can be hazardous, as it can cause many health problems. These medical problems include certain cancers, as many people are aware, but eye cataracts can also be caused by high, chronic exposure. Even short-term exposure can lead to radiation poisoning. Symptoms can include nausea and weakness. Hair loss has also been attributed to small amounts of exposure.
Protection
Doctors, nurses, and technologists should always take steps towards protecting themselves by wearing leaded gear, as lead will absorb radiation and scatter it, thereby preventing it from entering the body. By maintaining X-ray equipment and using shielding barriers, the exposure to dangerous X-rays can be minimized. But there are some professions that are potentially exposed to harmful radiation daily. Optimum care should be taken to protect all parts of the body. The lens of the eye is especially sensitive and should be protected using leaded glass eyewear.
Leaded Eyewear
Radiation glasses, or leaded eyewear, are glasses made with lead embedded in the actual eyewear material. The glasses are safe because the lead is fused into the eyewear material so that the lead is not toxic to the wearer. It is especially recommended that those with frequent exposure wear leaded eyewear for short-term and long-term protection.
Lead glasses come with clear lenses for those who do not need corrective eyewear, but must protect their eyes. They also can be made to match an eyeglass wearer’s prescription strength by special manufacturers or laboratories. These prescription leaded eyewear glasses will allow a person to see clearly while still wearing glasses that provide protection. No longer will they have to put large protective glasses over their prescription glasses. The leaded glasses are also great for people who must protect their eyes but, due to the conditions of their jobs, are not allowed to wear contact lenses.
Leaded eyewear comes in many fashionable styles and colors. They are attractive and look like regular eyeglasses. Side shields are important in eyewear, so that hazards are prevented from coming in through the sides of the glasses. Styles of leaded eyewear come with plastic or glass shields that also look as fashionable as regular glasses.
Ensuring protection with leaded eyewear is important. Now it can be fashionable as well as functional.