5 Expert Tips For Protecting Your Eyes From UV Damage
In a world brimming with sunny days and outdoor adventures, it’s easy to underestimate the power of UV radiation and its impact on our eyes. Beyond the golden tans and vitamin D boosts lies a lesser-known tale of ocular complications waiting to unfold. So, let’s dive into the depths of UV exposure and uncover the eye-opening truth that everyone should know.
The Science of UV Radiation
Before we delve into the complications, let’s understand what we’re dealing with. Contrary to popular belief, we are surrounded by UV radiation every time we step outside our homes, even in dull and dreary England! UV is in natural daylight all year round, and isn’t limited to the sunny days of spring and summer.
UV radiation comes in three forms – UVA, UVB and UVC. Happily, we don’t need to worry about UVC as it is absorbed by the earth’s atmosphere. UVA and UVB rays, however, penetrate through the atmosphere, reaching our skin and eyes. These rays are notorious for causing skin damage, but their effects on ocular health are equally significant.
The Eyes: Windows to the Soul and Susceptible to UV
Our eyes may be windows to the soul, but they’re also vulnerable to UV damage. Unlike skin, which has natural defences like melanin, our eyes lack such protection. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to a myriad of complications, including:
- Cataracts – The Clouding of Clarity
Contrary to popular belief, cataracts are not a “skin” that grows over the eye (that’s actually something different, keep reading to find out!). Cataracts affect the lens of the eye, turning it from being crystal clear like a glass of water to being more murky like a cup of tea. Cataracts are a normal “time-related” change that come to us all eventually. Think of them as being the eye’s version of grey hairs and wrinkles; if we’re lucky to live long enough we’ll all get them!
Although a natural time-related change, repeated and prolonged UV exposure can speed-up their formation, leading to cloudiness, loss of colour perception, increased problems with glare, and blurred vision.
- Macular Degeneration: A Blur in Central Vision
Macular degeneration affects the macula, the most specialised part of the retina responsible for our high-definition central vision and well as colour perception.
Exposure to UV radiation as well as High Energy Visible Blue (HEVB) light is known to contribute to the development and progression of this condition. Over time, the macula deteriorates, causing blurred or distorted central vision, making activities like reading, driving, and seeing people’s faces more challenging.
- Photokeratitis: Sunburn of the Eye
Ever heard of sunburned eyes? It’s a real thing, and it’s called photokeratitis. This painful condition occurs when the cornea, the eye’s outermost layer, is exposed to excessive UV radiation. Symptoms include redness, tearing, and a gritty sensation, akin to having sand in your eyes. While photokeratitis is temporary, repeated episodes can lead to long-term damage. People who enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are also susceptible to photokeratitis due to the higher levels of UV at altitude and because a lot of UV is reflected from the snow.
- Pterygium: The Surfer’s Eye
Pterygium, also known as “surfer’s eye,” is a growth of tissue on the white of the eye that can extend onto the cornea (the clear window at the front of the eye); this is often confused with cataract (see above). Although its exact cause isn’t fully understood, UV exposure is considered a significant risk factor. Pterygium can cause irritation, redness, and in severe cases, affect vision by distorting the cornea’s shape.
Protecting Your Peepers: Expert Tips for Happy, Healthy Eyes This Summer.
Now that we’ve shed light on the dark side of UV exposure, let’s discuss how to shield our eyes from harm:
- Wear Sunglasses: Opt for sunglasses that offer UV protection. Look for labels indicating they block 100% of UVA and UVB rays (UV400 or the relevant CE/British Standard mark BSEN 12312).
- Brave the Shade: Seek shade, especially during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), when the sun’s rays are strongest and/or the UV level will be highest.
- Sport a Hat: Donning a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap adds an extra layer of defence by shielding your eyes and face from direct sunlight.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on UV index forecasts and adjust your outdoor activities accordingly. If you have a smart phone, check-out the UV index on your preferred weather app.
- Use eye-friendly moisturising sunscreen: eye-friendly cosmetics brand Eyes Are The Story recommend using Avene Hydrance Light-UV Hydrating SPF30 moisturiser, which is readily available from Boots.
Conclusion: Seeing the Light
UV exposure may be ubiquitous, but armed with knowledge and protective measures, we can safeguard our eyes from its harmful effects. From cataracts to photokeratitis, the ocular complications of UV exposure underscore the importance of protecting our eyes from the harmful effects of UV. As a general rule, if it’s not raining or night time, wear your sunglasses if you’re spending any prolonged or repeated periods of time outdoors, even if it’s not sunny. So, the next time you step outdoors, remember to don your shades and shield those precious peepers. After all, clear vision is a bright future.
