We often associate sunshine with summer. So given the grey and snowier days we’ve experienced lately, it’s easy to forget that harmful rays from the sun are still affecting us. Many of us are aware of ultraviolet (UV) radiation causing sunburns and skin cancer, but not everyone may know that it can also cause serious eye-related health problems.
Sunlight can irritate our eyes, causing glare, blurred vision and watering. But you might not notice the more serious side-effects from UV radiation until later in life. Here are some examples of UV-related damage to the eye:
- Photokeratitis or snow blindness – a type of “sunburn” on the front surface of the eye
- Pterygium/pinguecula – growth on the conjunctiva “white” of your eyes
- Cataracts – clouding of the lens inside our eyes
- Macular degeneration – degeneration of our central vision
The effects of UV light accumulate throughout our lifetime, but the most critical period is childhood. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that 80% of a person’s exposure to damaging UV exposure occurs before the age of 18. Children are at an increased risk of UV exposure as they typically spend more time playing outdoors and have larger pupils which allows more sunlight to enter the eye. In addition, the natural lens in a child’s eye does not filter out as much UV which puts them at a higher risk of UV damage compared to adults.
Here are some easy tips to keep in mind while enjoying the fresh air:
- Wear sunglasses that fit properly to provide adequate side protection
- Wear sunscreen and a hat/visor that provides additional shade for your child’s face
- Teach them never to look directly at the sun
- Keep children under 6 months of age out of direct sunlight
There are lots of ways to protect our eyes from harmful sunlight, such as prescription sunglasses, transition tints (clear lenses indoors that darken outside), UV-blocking contact lenses and many more. If you have any more questions, book an appointment with your Doctor of Optometry!
This post was written by Dr. Adrienne Chan, and was sponsored by Total Focus Northgate.