Exposure to the sun can cause significant damage to your eyes. UV rays, which comprise several energy levels from the sun, are present even when the weather is overcast. There is UVA, the lower energy that gets past your cornea, to your eye lens, then the retina. It is linked to macular degeneration and cataracts. 

Your cornea absorbs any UVB rays that go through the ozone layer. The UVB energy level can cause pterygia, pingueculae, and photokeratitis. UVC rays are potentially the most harmful energy level released by the sun, but the ozone blocks it. 

Staying out in the sun without the appropriate protection can damage your eyes. Therefore, it is ideal that you habitually wear 100 percent UV 400 protection. You can also wear wraparound sunglasses to block sunlight from affecting the sides of the face where the rays can enter. A wide-brimmed hat can protect your eyes and face from harmful sun rays. 

Cataracts

According to research, UVB rays from the sun can lead to the development of cataracts. The condition can occur when the crystalline lens of your eyes starts becoming cloudy. It can become opaque and lead to blindness if left untreated.

Typically, cataracts affect older people. However, overexposure to the sun without the proper protection increases your risk for cataracts.

Eyelid Skin Cancer 

Your eyelids are at risk of developing skin cancer if they get exposed to harmful UV radiation. Overexposure not only causes sunburns but can cause different degrees of skin cancer. It can cause basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. 

Eyelid cancer has symptoms such as a lump or bumps on the eyelids that do not disappear, bleed, and do not heal. Further symptoms include sudden loss of eyelashes, inflammation of your eyelids, and lesion.

Macular Degeneration

The macula is responsible for detailed and clear vision. It is at the center of your retina. Exposure to ultraviolet rays of the sun over time damages your retina and macula.

Pterygium

Prolonged exposure to the sun, especially sunlight reflected off water or snow surfaces, can cause pterygium. The condition occurs when the conjunctiva, the protective membrane of the outer part of your eye, gets inflamed. It then grows outwards towards your eye’s optical center.

Pterygium symptoms include itchy eyes, gritty sensation in the eyes, dry eyes, and excessive tearing.

Keratitis

Overexposure to harmful UV rays from the sun can burn your cornea. The cornea refracts light inside the eye and directs it to your retina. Keratitis also happens due to parasites or infection. It results in cornea inflammation that can cause permanent damage if left untreated.

If you notice vision changes or impairment caused by excessive exposure to sunlight, call your ophthalmologist as soon as possible. An early response can help repair your vision depending on the condition they diagnose. Ideally, make a habit of taking annual eye exams to ensure your eyes are healthy. Finally, wear UV protection sunglasses whenever you step outdoors to ensure your eyes are safe from any harm that comes from UV rays from the sun.

For more on how the sun damages the eyes, visit Bright Eyes at our office in Plymouth, Indiana. Call (574) 936-2272 to book an appointment today.