UV radiation exposure increases the risk of cataract and eye cancer development as well as the burning of sensitive eye tissue.
The sun releases radiation in a variety of forms:
- One type is the sunlight we can see.
- Another is the heat that comes from the sun.
- A third kind of ray is ultraviolet (UV), which is also invisible to the human eye. Sunburn is caused by UV rays. Additionally, they can harm your eyes and impair your vision.
There are two types of ultraviolet rays:
UV-A and UV-B are the two categories of ultraviolet rays, and numerous eye issues may develop over time as a result of UV rays.
- UV-A : Your central vision may be damaged by UV-A. A portion of the retina at the back of your eye called the macula may be harmed.
- UV-B: These rays are absorbed by the cornea and lens in the front of your eye, but they may still harm your eyes more than UV-A rays do.
Eye problems UV rays can cause
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can have detrimental effects on the eyes and contribute to various eye problems. Here are some eye conditions and problems that can be caused or aggravated by UV radiation:
- Cataracts: Prolonged UV exposure is a risk factor for the development of cataracts. Cataracts involve the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision, increased sensitivity to glare, and decreased visual clarity. UV radiation can accelerate the development and progression of cataracts over time.
- Photokeratitis: Also known as “sunburn of the eye” or “snow blindness,” photokeratitis is a painful condition that occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) is exposed to high levels of UV radiation. It can be caused by direct sunlight or artificial sources such as tanning beds or welding arcs. Symptoms include eye redness, pain, blurred vision, tearing, and sensitivity to light. Photokeratitis is usually temporary but requires prompt medical attention.
- Pterygium: UV exposure can contribute to the development of a growth called a pterygium, which is a non-cancerous growth that starts on the conjunctiva (the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye) and may extend onto the cornea. Pterygium can cause redness, irritation, and a feeling of a foreign body in the eye. In severe cases, it may affect vision and require surgical removal.
- Macular degeneration: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. While the exact causes of AMD are complex and multifactorial, long-term exposure to UV radiation has been identified as a potential risk factor. AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, leading to blurred or distorted vision and eventual vision loss.
- Skin cancer around the eyes: UV radiation can also increase the risk of developing skin cancers around the eyes, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Skin cancers in this area can be particularly challenging to treat and may require specialized care.
Protect your eyes from UV rays
To protect your eyes from the harmful effects of UV radiation, it is essential to take preventive measures such as:
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that block 100% of both UV-A and UV-B rays. Look for sunglasses with labels indicating UV protection.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat: Use a hat with a wide brim to provide additional shade and protection for your eyes and face.
- Seek shade: When the sun’s UV rays are strongest (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), try to stay in the shade or indoors, especially during the summer months.
- Use UV-blocking contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, consider those with built-in UV protection to provide additional shielding.
- Avoid artificial sources of UV radiation: Minimize exposure to artificial sources of UV radiation, such as tanning beds and sun lamps.
Why visit Bajaj Eye Care Centre?
By adopting these protective measures, you can reduce your risk of developing UV-related eye problems and maintain good eye health. If you have specific concerns about your eye health or need personalized advice, it’s best to consult Dr. Rajiv Bajaj at Bajaj Eye Care Center in Delhi, who treats all eye conditions while offering the highest level of comfort and care to his patients.
153 Google reviews
