Antinuclear

Damage to eyes from ultraviolet radiation

UV Eye Safety to Avoid Sunburn of the Eyes,
https://www.tranquileyes.net.au/2012/12/uv-eye-safety/  
23 Dc 12,
We protect our skin with
sunscreen, but what about our eyes? Most of us are aware of the
dangerous effects ultraviolet (UV) rays have on our skin, but few of
us realize the danger imposed on our eyes. UV radiation, whether from
natural sunlight or artificial UV rays, can damage the eye’s surface
tissues as well as the cornea and lens. UV radiation can burn the
front surface of the eye, much like a sunburn on the skin.
UV Radiation
UV radiation consists of invisible rays from the sun. There are three
types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC rays do not pose any
threat, as they are absorbed by the ozone layer. However, exposure to
UVA and UVB rays can have adverse effects on your eyes and vision.
Short- and long-term exposure to these dangerous rays can cause
significant damage. It is important to note that UV radiation can also
be given off by artificial sources like welding machines, tanning beds
and lasers.
Short-Term Effects of UV Radiation
If you are exposed, unprotected, to excessive amounts of UV radiation
over a short period of time, you are likely to experience an effect
called photokeratitis. Photokeratitis is an inflammation of the cornea
caused by a brief exposure to UV radiation, usually when combined with
cold wind and snow. Like a “sunburn of the eye”, it may be painful and
may create symptoms including red eyes, a foreign body sensation or
gritty feeling in the eyes, extreme sensitivity to light and excessive
tearing. Fortunately, this is usually temporary and rarely causes
permanent damage to the eyes.
Long-Term Effects of UV Radiation
Long-term exposure to UV radiation can be more serious. Scientific
studies and research growing out of the U.S. space program have shown
that exposure to small amounts of UV radiation over a period of many
years may increase the chance of developing a cataract, and may cause
damage to the retina, the nerve-rich lining of the eye that is used
for seeing. This damage to the retina is usually not reversible.
Cumulative damage of repeated exposure may contribute to chronic eye
disease, as well as increase the risk of developing skin cancer around
the eyelids. Long-term exposure to UV light is also a risk factor in
the development of pterygium (a growth that invades the corner of the
eyes) and pinquecula (a yellowish, slightly raised lesion that forms
on the surface tissue of the white part of your eye.)
UV Radiation Protection
It is not yet known how much exposure to UV radiation will cause how
much damage, but a good recommendation is to wear quality sunglasses
that offer good protection and a wide-brimmed hat when working
outdoors, participating in outdoor sports, taking a walk, running
errands or doing anything in the sun.
To provide protection for your eyes, your sunglasses should:
block out 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation
screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light
be perfectly matched in color and free of distortion and imperfection
have lenses that are grey for proper colour recognition
If you spend a lot of time in bright sunlight, wrap-around frames can
provide additional protection from harmful UV radiation by keeping UV
rays from reaching the eyes. Also, remember UV eye protection for
children and teenagers. They typically spend more time in the sun than
adults. Finally, even if you are wearing contact lenses that have UV
protection, you still need to wear sunglasses. UV rays will likely
affect the eye tissue that is not covered by the contacts. Your eyes
will be more comfortable, too, with most of the bright light blocked.

December 23, 2012 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | AUSTRALIA - NATIONAL, health