It’s no secret that the sun can be harmful to your skin. But did you know that it can also be bad for your eyes? In fact, too much exposure to UV rays can lead to a condition called photokeratitis, which is basically a sunburn of the cornea.

This can cause pain, irritation, and even temporary vision loss. That’s why it’s important to protect your eyes from the sun whenever you’re outside! Let’s discuss the dangers of UV rays and how to protect your eyes from them.

What is Photokeratitis?

Photokeratitis is when your cornea becomes inflamed or irritated from too much exposure to UV rays. It’s sometimes called “snow blindness” because it can occur after spending time in the snow, where the sun reflects off of the ground and into your eyes. Symptoms of photokeratitis include pain, redness, tearing, and blurred vision.

Causes of Photokeratitis

You may be wondering how you can get photokeratitis when your eyes are always protected by your eyelids. The answer is that the UV rays can actually penetrate through your eyelids! This is why it’s so important to wear sunglasses or a hat with a brim when you’re outside.

Some common causes of photokeratitis include the following:

• Surface reflection
• Staring at the sun
• Tanning beds
• Arc welders
• And more!

Preventative Measures

When it comes down to it, the best way to prevent photokeratitis is by wearing proper eye protection. This means sunglasses that filter out both UVA and UVB rays. If you’re going to be in a particularly sunny or bright area, you may even want to consider wearing a hat with a brim.

If you work with arc welders, wear a protective mask or gear that covers your eyes. If you suffer from a corneal disorder, make sure to consult with your doctor about the best way to protect your eyes from the sun.

If you are going to tan in a tanning bed, always wear eye protection.

For those who love outdoor sports such as snowboarding or skiing, make sure to invest in a good pair of goggles, as the sun reflecting off the snow can be very harmful to your eyes.

The same goes for water enthusiasts. Fishermen, surfers, and sailors should all take care to protect their eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.

Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your vision. If you are unsure about the best way to protect your eyes from t