How does ultraviolet light affect the eyes?

How does ultraviolet light affect the eyes?

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We have already learned how to use sunscreen, but how carefully do we treat our eyes? Do we know why ultraviolet radiation is dangerous? Ophthalmologists of the clinic for laser eye microsurgery at Maerchak help to sort out this issue.

What radiation is harmful to the eyes?

Before talking about the diseases that provoke ultraviolet radiation, consider the types of solar radiation:

  • UVC rays theoretically cause severe damage to the skin and structures of the eye. Fortunately, most of them do not reach humans, as they are absorbed by the ozone layer of the atmosphere.
  • UVB rays are also partially filtered by the ozone layer, but some of them still reach the earth’s surface. They are absorbed by the cornea, but in large quantities they cause photokeratitis – corneal burns, the extreme manifestation of which is “snow blindness”. This happens, as a rule, at high altitudes, where the ozone filter is weaker, and the rays are reflected from the surface of the snow. A mild form of burn can occur in winter and on the plain if a person spends a lot of time outdoors without special sunglasses.
  • UVA rays penetrate the corneas and can damage the retina and lens.

What eye problems does ultraviolet light cause?

Excessive exposure to UV radiation is blamed for the development of such pathologies:

  • macular degeneration,
  • cataracts,
  • pterygium ,
  • pinguecules ,
  • oncology.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the eyes is cumulative, but an ordinary person receives 80% of all radiation before the age of 18.

Who is at risk?

People of all ages are affected by sunlight, but some categories are more sensitive:

  • Patients who have had a cataract removed. Check with your ophthalmologist if your artificial lens has a UV filter.
  • Patients with macular degeneration after a course of photodynamic therapy.
  • People with a light iris are more likely to develop cancer.
  • Skiers, hikers, climbers, water sports enthusiasts – all those whose passion is associated with prolonged exposure to the sun, especially at high altitudes or where there are reflective surfaces.
  • Solar fans.
  • People who, by the nature of their work, often have to come into contact with sources of artificial radiation, for example, welders or medical workers.
  • Children: They spend more time outdoors than adults. In addition, the lens of the child is still transparent and easily passes the sun’s rays.
  • People who are taking medications that increase photosensitivity. These drugs include some antibiotics, oral contraceptives, diuretics, and others.

How to protect your eyes from solar radiation?

The obvious answer is to wear glasses and lenses with an appropriate UV filter, not only in summer but also in winter.

Remember:

  • Clouds and fog do not block harmful radiation.
  • UV rays are reflected from snow and water, so at sea and in the mountains, you should especially take care of your eyesight.
  • At altitude, ultraviolet radiation is absorbed by the atmosphere worse: by 10-12% for every 1000 meters you rise.
  • The level of UV radiation is higher during the day – from 10 am to 2 pm.

It is worth choosing protection only in optics, where you can be sure of the quality of the lenses.

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