Dangers of UV Exposure to the Eyes

UV exposure is a constant threat to the well-being of your eyes. UVA rays from the sun have low-energy radiation that can harm your central vision because they can damage your macula. The rays are very prevalent, though UVB rays are the most dangerous of the two. It damages the cornea and eye lens and causes sunburns.

Read on to know the dangers of UV exposure to the eyes.

Cataracts

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the world. They vary in severity as individuals age. Exposure to UVB rays from the sun can amplify how the eye lens deteriorates and cause the development of the clouding of your eye lens. As a result, you will experience reduced vision. Blindness occurs when your eye lens deteriorates severely.

Photokeratitis

Photokeratitis is like getting a sunburn on your skin. It is the inflammation of your eyeball tissue. The condition is also called corneal sunburn. Your eyeball tissue looks like skin and is very sensitive. UV exposure for a few hours can damage it.

You may experience the following if you have photokeratitis:

Eye pain
Eye redness
Blurry vision
Watery or teary eyes
Headaches
Swelling
Seeing halos
Light sensitivity
Temporary vision loss
Eyelid twitching
Feel like you have something in your eyes like dust particles

Temporary vision loss is rare, but it can happen. You can also see color changes in your vision. However, that is a rare symptom.

Photokeratitis does not just occur during summer. It can happen all year round, especially if you live in an environment that reflects sun rays into your eyes. It can affect you if you live near water bodies, snow, or sandy beaches.

Macular Degeneration

Your macula is responsible for converting light and images into nerve signals to deliver to your brain. It is part of your retina and helps make vision more detailed and sharper. UV rays from the sun contribute to the condition as individuals age. Macular degeneration causes the loss of central vision, and you begin seeing things straight ahead as blurry.

Pterygium and Pinguecula

UV exposure can cause the development of pterygium, a growth found in your conjunctiva. Prolonged UV exposure increases the risk of the growth spreading to your cornea and causing vision loss. The good news is that it can get removed surgically.

Pinguecula is a noncancerous or benign growth that develops in the conjunctiva. They are yellow or white and feel like bumps on the eyeballs. Your eyes can feel dry and irritated. The affected eye can start to itch and may become inflamed or red. Your symptoms can be mild or severe. Exposure to UV rays can lead to such growths in the eyes.

Skin Cancer

UV exposure can affect the skin around your eyes and your eyelids. Skin cancer can develop inside and outside your eyelids due to UV rays. Ideally, you should wear eye protection and wide-brimmed hats to block UV rays from harming your eyes. Wear sunglasses that block out 99 to 100 UVA and UVB radiation.

For more about UV Exposure, visit Lifetime Vision and Eye Care at our office in Miami Gardens, Florida. Call (305) 902-3320 to book an appointment today.