Our eyes play an essential role in bringing the lovely world around us into focus and giving us visual experience of our environment. But none of this would be possible without light. In order for us to see, light enters our eyes where it is refracted and focused into a specific point on the retina at the back of the eye called the macula and then converted into electrical signals that travel to the brain via the optic nerves. However, while light is essential for sight, certain types of light, particularly ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) light, can cause significant damage to the eye over time if not protected against. Unfortunately, the source of harmful UV light is the sun which is also the most common and difficult to avoid because we all need some sunshine in our life.
Common types of UV-related eye injuries
Over the years and depending on the length and duration of exposure, sunlight cause problems to our eyes, resulting in blurred vision, sensitivity to the light, excessive tearing, blindness, and more. The most common eye conditions and injuries caused by UV light include:
Cataracts – Research has linked UVB light directly to the development of cataracts, which occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes gradually cloudy and opaque, potentially resulting in total blindness if not extracted through surgery. Cataracts typically affect older individuals; however, excessive exposure to sunlight without adequate protection can increase the risk of developing this common eyesight problem.
Macular degeneration – The macula is located at the centre of the ocular membrane called the retina and is responsible for clear, detailed vision. Over time and with exposure to UV light rays, the natural lens of the eye filters out the vast majority of damaging ultraviolet light before it has a chance to damage the retina and macula. The same is true for most artificial cataract lens implants. However, there is some evidence that suggests the retina and macula can become damaged by ultraviolet radiation, resulting in significant vision loss.
Pterygium – Also known as surfer’s eye, pterygium occurs when the protective membrane of the outside of the eye called the conjunctiva becomes inflammed and grows out toward the optical center of the eye. It is typically associated with prolonged exposure to sunlight, especially when reflected off the surface of water or tarred road. Symptoms include dry, itchy eyes, excessive tearing, and a gritty sensation in the eyes.
Keratitis – Excessive exposure to harmful UV rays from the sun and tanning beds can actually cause the cornea to burn, not unlike a sunburn. The cornea refracts light within the eye and directs light to the retina. Keratitis can also be caused by an infection or parasite and results in inflammation of the cornea, which if left untreated may result in permanent damage.
Skin cancers of the eyelid – As with the rest of the body, the eyelids are vulnerable to the harsh effects of UV radiation and can not only be burned by overexposure, but can also develop varying degrees of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Symptoms of eyelid cancer include a bump or lump on the eyelid that bleeds and does not heal or disappear, inflammation of the eyelids, sudden loss of eyelashes, or a lesion.
If you notice that your vision has been impaired by the harmful effects of the sun or would like to learn more about protecting your eyesight for years to come, make an appointment with an experienced optometrist as soon as possible. In many cases, vision can be protected by prescribing special glasses to filter out suvh harmful rays. It is in your best interest to schedule a thorough annual eye exam as well.
Protect your sight from UV light radiation
The skilled optometrists at MyEyeDr GH Vision and Eyecare Centre strongly suggest that people of all ages take necessary precautions to protect their eyes from the damaging toll of UV light radiation, including:
- Always wear UVA and UVB blocking sunglasses when outdoors or exposed to natural night.
- Do not use sunlamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.
- Wear UV-blocking goggles when swimming.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight by staying in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Expert vision care at MyEyeDr GH Vision and Eyecare Centre
To make an appointment at the MyEyeDr GH Vision and Eyecare Centre please call (+233) 0209398935 or contact us to schedule a consultation today.
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Our Quote
The eyes are the window to your soul ― Williams Shakespeare