Damage caused to the eyes by sunlight can have serious consequences that may only become apparent after several years. How can we protect our eyes, why are our eyes sometimes sore and what should definitely not be underestimated?
The sun – source of positive energy that improves our mood and heals the soul can also, at times, be our foe. Especially where our eyes are concerned. Many people still underestimate the sun`s UV radiation and fail to realise what consequences irresponsible behaviour may have.
We`ve all heard, at some point, that we are not to stare directly into the sun without the protection of sunglasses. But we should not stare into the sun regardless. If we repeatedly and continuously neglect eye protection when in the sun, we are asking for trouble. This may take on the form of conjunctivitis, inflammation of the cornea, sunburnt eyelids or even irreparable damage to the retina causing permanent weakening of eyesight.
The fact that sunlight may weaken our eyesight aside, it also causes wrinkles in the areas of the eyes where the skin is extremely delicate. Last but not least, we may also, unknowingly, be giving a helping hand to a carcinoma (skin cancer) as a result of having burnt our sensitive skin of the eyelids. UV radiation alone, may also, in some cases, account for an allergic reaction.
And why exactly is it that our eyes are sometimes sore? Due to intensive radiation, the cells on the surface of the conjunctiva die away and as such the nerve endings in the cornea are uncovered. We perceive this in the form of pain and irritation. When the damage is only slight, the cells renew themselves withing about a day and if inflammation is avoided, then that`s that. Issues may resurface in several years` time with increasing age. Damage may be accumulated over many years and only manifest itself in old age through tissue changes or cataracts.
Damage may be caused instantly, too. Should the rays penetrate through the pupil to the lens and retina, a photochemical and phototoxic reaction may result, causing irreparable damage. UV rays are absorbed through the conjunctiva and partially also the cornea and radiation with consequences such as conjunctivitis or inflammation of the cornea may arise as soon as 30 minutes after being exposed to harsh sunlight.
Damage may be short-term for example non-infectious inflammation of the cornea or long-term, and graver, while often asymptomatic. As such, we may expose our eyes to UV radiation throughout our lives, but only as the years add on, may we realise the consequences, for instance in the form of cataract.
The sunlight may be damaging regardless of the season, but it intensifies with increasing altitude. The higher you are, the shorter the period of reaction to sun damage. The result may be tearing, burning, itching or sore eyes. Immediate relief may be brought about by suitable eye drops that will moisten and soothe the eyes. Cold presses, closing your eyes or spending some time in a darkened room
Do you feel invincible because you wear glasses? Please beware that there are glasses and then there are glasses. If you have old, scratched and cheap glasses of uncertain origin it is often worse than wearing no glasses at all. Dark glasses cause the dilation of the pupils and as such the pupil lets in a whole lot more sunlight than if you had no glasses. Please pay increased attention to children who often do not want to use sunglasses or take them off repeatedly. Children in particular, having wider and more transparent lens are the most vulnerable.
So, what must be done then? Buy yourselves some high-quality sunglasses that reduce the UV rays, protect the retina from the effects of UV rays from the top as well as from the sides and as such are a helper and also a lovely fashion accessory. We recommend buying your sunglasses at an optician and not in fashion boutiques or markets. These provide 100% UV protection, are made of quality durable materials and are designed in such a way so as to ensure proper fit. Surely, we`ve all been there before – buying cheap sunglasses that were skewed and uncomfortable.
Buy yourselves some artificial tears eye drops come summer. These will moisten the surface of the eye and if you work in air-conditioned buildings, have these handy at all times. You will also soothe irritated eyes using suitable eye drops recommended by your ophthalmologist or your pharmacist.