Become sun-wise to avoid over exposure
Many have experienced the uncomfortable sunburn from laying out in the sun too long or going outside without UV protection on one’s skin.
Painful burns, peeling, wrinkles and even cancer – there are a list of known dangers to sun exposure on the skin, and the same UV rays can have harmful effects on the eyes as well. There are three ranges of ultraviolet radiation: UV-C, UV-B and UV-A. Though UV-C is absorbed by the ozone and poses no threat to health, UV-B and UV-A can have both short- and long-term effects on vision.
One of the most common effects from short-term exposure is known as photokeratitis. According to the American Optometric Association, photokeratitis is sometimes referred to as a sunburn of the eyes. It can be painful and cause redness as well as a gritty or foreign body sensation in the eyes. Photokeratitis can also cause extreme sensitivity to light and cause an excessive watering of the eyes, but rarely has permanent damage and is usually experienced temporarily.
Some of the more severe and harmful effects of UV radiation to the eyes occur from long-term exposure. The AOA states that studies show longterm exposure can lead to potentially blinding eye diseases such as macular degeneration, as well as cataracts which cause a clouding of vision. The type of chronic exposure that leads to these conditions may take place over the course of many years. Additionally, long-term sun exposure can even cause skin cancer around the eyelids.
Summertime usually means longer days of in the sun, requiring more awareness of protection against the harmful effects. The United States Environmental Protection Agency states everyone is at risk for eye damage from UV rays and that in addition to rays from the sun, artificial light sources such as tanning beds can be equally as dangerous. Inadequate protection can lead to pterygium, an abnormal growth in the corner of the eye. Pterygium is usually non-cancerous, but it can sometimes require surgery for removal.
In order to protect against the list of potentially blinding, painful and dangerous effects from sun exposure to the eyes, it’s important to pay particular attention to labeling. Protection requires more than simply grabbing any pair of sunglasses or sunwear. The EPA’s SunWise Program states that labels on sunglasses should clearly state they protect against 99-100 percent of UV-B and UV-A rays. The glasses should also be undamaged and have a good fit, especially for children, and be large enough that they cover most angles. The AOA recommends sunglasses screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light.
For individuals who are active in sports or work in eye-hazardous conditions, the AOA recommends wearing sunglasses made from a polycarbonate material. This particular material offers the most impact resistance. It may also be beneficial to have glasses which have wraparound frames for additional protection. Widebrimmed hats are also encouraged to be worn in addition to sunglasses, as they can offer more protection from UV rays from a wider angle.
In an effort to aid in the fight against sun damage, there are even contact lenses with UV-blocking capabilities. Some particular brands offer lenses that can block up to 90 percent of UV-A and 99 percent of UV-B, but it is recommended they still be accompanied by sunglasses and/or hats in some circumstances for added benefit. It’s important to know if your specific brand and lenses offer UV protection and to consult with a physician before risking any sun exposure.
The AOA strongly encourages for a comprehensive eye examination every two years in order to monitor and maintain eye health, as well as keep up with any UV protection needs. This is also a useful way of keeping up-todate with the latest and most effective advances in eye protection. With the wealth of knowledge that currently exists on the dangers and potentially damaging effects of sun exposure, being in the know of that information is half the battle.
– Katie Ho
Stay Protected:
Having an awareness and taking appropriate action in protecting vision from UV rays are the two most important ways in maintaining eye health against the summertime sun. For more information on the ePa’s sunWise Program, go to www.epa.gov/sunwise.
