UV and Your Eyes

Just like how our skin is always at risk of burning and damage when we’re out in the sun - so are our eyes.

The sun releases various types of UV rays, including UVA and UVB. Both are hazardous to our eyes, with the degree of risk dependent on several factors such as our geographic location, altitude (higher altitudes have greater UV levels), and time of day we’re exposed, with UV levels typically being higher from 10am to 4pm here in Australia.

Other factors that can impact our UV exposure risk include the environment's reflective surfaces (such as being in the snow or near sand and water), the medications we take, and where in the city we are. Interestingly, research shows that your UV risk may be up to twice as high in the winter months, as snow is highly reflective.

The Risks Of UV Exposure For Our Eyes

UV exposure poses notable risks to our eyes, particularly to the cornea, lens, and retina of the eye. Eye problems that have been linked to repeated UV exposure over time include:

  • Cataracts: long-term exposure to UV radiation can cause the eye's natural lens to become cloudy in areas, which is known as cataracts. This can cause blurred or reduced vision, sensitivity to light, and trouble seeing at night. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 20% of all cataract cases are attributable to UV radiation and are preventable.
  • Macular degeneration: this is a serious condition that affects the central part of the retina and can lead to a loss of central vision. Long-term exposure to UV radiation may increase the risk of developing macular degeneration, alongside the natural ageing process. Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in adults 60 and older, but higher UV exposure at an earlier age has been significantly associated with early symptom appearance.
  • Pterygia: these visible growths on the eye's surface can cause corneal problems and distort your vision.
  • Photokeratitis: this is like sunburn on your cornea, where painful inflammation can cause temporary vision loss due to corneal damage.
  • Increased risk of cancers: according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one-tenth of all skin cancers are found on the eyelid.

Protecting Your Eyes From The Effects Of UV

We recommend thinking of sunglasses for your eyes in the same way you think of sunblock for your skin since they provide a crucial defence against harmful UV rays. However, not all sunglasses are created equal, so it's important to get your sunglasses from a trusted provider like our clinics at The Optical Co.

Your eye care professional is highly experienced in helping you get the best fit for both your eyes and the need to offer maximum UV protection. This may include opting for close-fitting or wraparound designs, as they help to block more rays from entering through the sides of the frames. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat can provide an additional layer of protection. It's also important to remember that overcast conditions do not eliminate the need for eye protection, as even in the winter, reflected UV can still pose a threat. Additionally, reflected UV from buildings, sand, and water can also be hazardous during summer months - and snow glare in the winter is also dangerous.

Select from our extensive range of UV safe eyewear across Queensland and New South Wales clinics by selecting your preferred location here.

The Optical Co

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