It’s no secret that the sun can do a number on your skin. But what about your eyes? The sun can cause a variety of problems for your eyes, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even cancer. Let’s discuss the toll that the sun takes on your eyes and how to protect them from the harmful UV rays!
Cataracts
Too much exposure to sunlight can cause cataracts, which are a clouding of the eye’s lens. Cataracts can make it difficult to see clearly and can eventually lead to blindness. Cataracts are very dangerous to your eye health and can be catastrophic.
Corneal Sunburn
Just as your skin can get sunburned, so can your eyes. Cornea flash burns are caused by a brief but severe exposure to UVB rays that destroy the transparent tissue on the front of the eye.
This disorder is more common in skiers, farmers, surfers, and fishers who are often exposed to high UV conditions generated by ultraviolet light reflection off water, sand, or snow. Corneal flash burns can also be caused by artificial light sources such as tanning beds, welding arcs, and photographer’s flash.
Cancer
Eyelids, particularly the lower eyelid, are at risk for developing carcinoma or melanoma. A lesion or bump that is abnormal in shape or frequently bleeds, a change in the look of the eyelid, such as thickness, irregular texture, or swelling, unexplained eyelash loss, or chronic redeye that does not respond to therapy are all signs of this cancer.
Protecting Your Eyes
It’s imperative to remember that protecting your eyes at all times is essential for the health of your eyesight. Here are a few tips and tricks to protect your eyes at all cost this summer:
Sunglasses
When outdoors, always wear sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Wraparound styles offer the best protection because they keep light from entering the eye from the side.
Hats
In addition to sunglasses, it’s important to protect your eyes from the sun by wearing a hat with a wide brim. This will help to keep your eyes shaded and prevent exposure to UV radiation.
Eye Drops
If you spend time outdoors, have sensitive eyes, or experience dryness in the eyes after a long day outside, opt for eye drops with a moisturizing component. These eye drops can refresh your eyes and provide relief from dryness and help to provide protection against UV damage.
Stay Safe This Summer
While the sun can be a great source of vitamin D and warmth, it’s important to take steps to protect your eyes from its harmful effects. By taking action to protect your eyes, you can enjoy all that the summer sun has to offer without damaging your vision. Please contact Dr. Davis today at 817-778-4444 for all eye questions and concerns!
