Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause long-term ocular damage. Spending extended hours under direct sunlight will increase your chances of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. The two eye conditions are the leading causes of vision loss among seniors. 

UV light can damage most ocular structures, including the eyelids. Individuals more susceptible to sunburns have a higher risk of suffering eye damage. Read on to learn how to protect your eyes from UV damage. 

Understanding UV Damage

UV light penetrates eye tissues easier than visible light, causing more damage. The known UV ray types are UVA, UVB, and UVC. The closest to visible light, UVA, can penetrate the cornea, reaching the lens and retina. 

Prolonged exposure to the rays can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. Overexposure to UVB rays can lead to snow blindness or photokeratitis. The most energetic rays, UVC, can inflict the most harm on the skin and eyes. 

Risk of UV Exposure 

An increased risk of UV exposure is linked to various factors. They include:

• Geographical location. Living close to the equator increases the risk of UV exposure.
• Certain medications can make people susceptible to UV radiation.
• Altitude. Being in high altitudes increases the risk of UV exposure.
• Time of day. UV exposure is greatest when the sun is high.
• If you are at high risk of UV eye damage, try to remain indoors when the sun is at its hottest. This is usually between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make sure you use UV protection at all times. 

Protect Your Eyes From UV Damage 

It may not be possible to remain indoors to avoid exposure to sunlight, but you can always protect your eyes through the following:

• Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses. Choose high-quality sunglasses with 99 to 100% UVA and UVB protection. Remember to wear sunglasses on cloudy days and during winter.
• Choosing UV- protective contact lenses. Talk to your eye doctor about UV protective lens options if you use contact lenses.
• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Wearing a hat outdoors can help shade your eyes and reduce glare from direct sunlight. 
• Regular eye exams. Getting regular eye exams helps monitor changes or detect damage from UV light. 
• Check your weather forecast for UV index and consider remaining indoors when the sun is hottest.

Eye Problems Linked to UV Exposure 

Excessive UV exposure can raise the chance of developing cataracts, photokeratitis, eye growths, and eye cancer. It can also lead to the development of a pinguecula or a pterygium. 

Babies and young children can also suffer UV damage, so they require eye and skin protection. About 80 percent of damage from UV exposure occurs before age 18. Individuals exposed to ice or snow reflection have an increased risk of developing photokeratitis. 

Regular Eye Exams 

Prevention is always better than cure. Getting regular eye exams will allow the doctor to detect eye issues early. Diagnosing problems promptly helps develop the best treatment plan. It is vital to prevent long-term complications or vision loss. The earlier you start protecting your eyes, the better your long-term eye health. 

For more on protecting your eyes from UV damage, visit Premier Eye Care at our office in Fort Worth, Texas. Call (817) 428-2020 to book an appointment today.