The eyes can be overlooked when you are on the go, but they are just as vulnerable to sun damage.
Here are the ways in which your eyes can be damaged by the sun and what to do about it.
The sun can damage the eyes in several ways, primarily through exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Here are some ways in which the sun can damage the eyes:
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UV Radiation: UV radiation from the sun can cause damage to various structures within the eye, including the cornea, lens, and retina. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can increase the risk of several eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium (a growth on the surface of the eye).
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Photokeratitis: This condition, also known as "sunburn of the eye" or "snow blindness," occurs when the cornea is exposed to high levels of UV radiation, typically from sunlight reflected off snow, water, sand, or other surfaces. Symptoms include pain, redness, tearing, and sensitivity to light.
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Accelerated Aging: Just as UV radiation can cause premature aging of the skin, it can also contribute to accelerated aging of the eyes. This can lead to changes in the appearance of the eyes, such as wrinkles and sagging eyelids, as well as an increased risk of age-related eye conditions.
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Increased Risk of Eye Cancer: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation may increase the risk of developing certain types of eye cancer, such as ocular melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva.
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Glare and Discomfort: Bright sunlight can cause glare and discomfort, leading to squinting, headaches, and difficulty seeing clearly.
To protect your eyes from sun damage, it's important to wear sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays whenever you are outdoors, even on cloudy days. Additionally, wearing wide-brimmed hats can provide further protection by shading the eyes from direct sunlight.
