How UV Rays Damage the Eyes | UV Safety Month

Most of us know that rays from the sun can damage the skin, but we may not fully understand how much UV rays can lead to damage to vision and eyes. The good news is that you can protect your eyes with some easy steps. July is UV Safety Month. It is a good reminder about the need to protect our eyes from the sun. 

What is Ultraviolet Light?

Ultraviolet light is a form of radiation. Although it primarily comes from the sun, it is also emitted from other sources. This type of electromagnetic radiation has different wavelengths. There are different types of UV light emitted from the sun, including UVA, UVB, and UVC rays.

Although only a small amount of UV rays penetrates the atmosphere and reaches us, it can still be harmful. UV rays can disrupt cellular structure and potentially cause damage to the body, including the skin and eyes.

The UV rays from the sun include about 95% UVA light, and the rest is UVB light.
There are also sources of man-made UV radiation, such as:

• Tanning beds
• Welding lamps
• Some lasers
• Halogen lights
• Black lights

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How UV damages the eyes

Some of the damage to the eyes from UV light can occur in the short term, and some effects can occur long term. For example, short-term UV light exposure can lead to a sunburned cornea, which is called photokeratitis.

Some people may also develop growths on the eyes called pterygiums after spending years exposed to the sun.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, long-term sun exposure can also increase your risk of certain eye diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and skin cancer on your eyelids. 
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What puts you at the most risk?  

The exact amount of sun exposure that increases your risk of developing eye problems is not known, but there are certain factors that increase how much UV exposure you get and also how your body reacts to it. The following situations may increase your sun exposure:

Being out in the sun during peak times: The sun is the strongest during midday.

Being around or in the water: The reflection from the water may make the rays from the sun stronger and a little more intense.

Taking certain types of medication: Taking certain types of medication, such as antibiotics, may increase your skin and eye sensitivity to UV rays.

Not using any sun protection or wearing sunglasses: Going outside during the day with no sun protection, such as a hat or sunglasses, exposes your eyes to more UV light and the risk of damage. 
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How to protect your eyes 

There are many steps you can take to reduce your risk of exposure to UV rays and damage to your eyes. Often combining some of the things below can reduce your risk of problems. Consider the following suggestions:

Wear sunglasses even on cloudy days. The sun’s rays can penetrate the clouds. Be sure to wear sunglasses throughout the year.

Wear a hat for added protection. Also, seek shade as much as possible to reduce exposure.

Apply sunscreen to your face. Sunscreen decreases your risk of skin cancer. When applying to your face, be sure to include the area around your eyes and your eyelids.

Do not look directly into the sun. Looking directly into the sun can increase your risk of damaging the retina.

Check the UV index. The UV index forecasts the intensity of the UV radiation from the sun. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the higher the number, the greater your risk of sunburn or damage to your eyes.

Remember, protecting yourself from UV rays today can decrease your risk of eye diseases in the future. 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.