Eye Diseases Linked to Ultraviolet Light Exposure | UV Safety Month

Ultraviolet light from the sun can damage almost all parts of the eyes, and that includes the eyelid. UV damage is also accumulative. This means the more time you spend unprotected in the sun, the more damage to the eyes you may sustain.

We know UV light can increase the risk of skin cancer, but it also easily penetrates the eye tissue, which is why it can lead to damage. 
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According to John Hopkins Medicine, the front surface of the eye absorbs most of the UV radiation. This can lead to damage on the surface, including noncancerous and cancerous growths.

There are various eye diseases that are associated with ultraviolet light exposure, such as those listed below. 
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Photokeratitis 

Photokeratitis is an eye condition that occurs due to excess exposure to the radiation from the sun. It is similar to a sunburn, but instead of it affecting the skin, it affects the eyes.

Symptoms of photokeratitis may appear a few hours after sun exposure and can include:

• Eye pain
• Excess tearing
• Blurred vision
• A gritty feeling in the eye
• Light sensitivity

According to the Cleveland Clinic, most cases clear up within a few days.

Treatment includes supportive measures to ease symptoms, such as using artificial tears, placing a cold compress on the eyes, and staying out of the sun. Also, take out your contact lenses until your eyes heal. 
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Cataracts

Sun exposure can also increase your risk of developing cataracts. Cataracts cause the lens in the eye to become cloudy. This develops because the proteins in the lens break down.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, spending too much time in the sun may increase the risk of cataracts.  

Symptoms of cataracts include:

• Blurry vision
• Problems seeing at night
• Sensitivity to light

The treatment for cataracts is surgery to replace the cloudy lens. 
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Age-related macular degeneration 

Age-related macular degeneration involves damage to the macula which is an area in the center of the retina. When it becomes damaged, it can affect central vision.

Accumulative damage from UV light may play a role in the development of macular degeneration. Symptoms of age-related macular degeneration include:

• Blurry vision
• Straight lines may appear wavy
• Loss of central vision

There is currently no cure for age-related macular degeneration, but treatment may slow down the progression of the disease. Treatment may include vitamins such as AREDs supplements. 
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​Protecting your vision from UV damage

It is clear that too much UV exposure can increase the risk of some eye diseases. It can also raise the chances of developing skin cancer around the eyes.

July is UV Safety Month. Below are some reminders on how you can enjoy the sunshine while protecting your eyes.

• Always wear sunglasses outside during the day.
• Consider wraparound sunglasses for better protection.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra sun protection.
• Avoid being in the direct sun during the peak hours from 10 a.m. to about 4 p.m.
• Try to find some shade when you are outside for several hours on a sunny day.
• Apply sunscreen around your eyes before going outside.

We hope the above information provides a reminder about proper UV protection.

If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.