Yes, your eyes can indeed get sunburnt, a condition medically termed photokeratitis. This painful eye condition arises from exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, similar to how skin gets a sunburn.
What Happens When Your Eyes Get Sunburnt?
Photokeratitis involves an inflammation of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye, and the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane lining the eyelids and covering the white part of the eye. UV rays damage the surface cells of these structures, leading to a temporary burn.
This condition can result from various sources of intense UV exposure. Direct sunlight is a common culprit. Reflections from highly reflective surfaces like snow, water, or sand can intensify UV exposure, known as “snow blindness.” Artificial sources, such as welding arcs, also emit strong UV radiation, called “welder’s flash” or “arc eye.”
Recognizing the Symptoms of Ocular Sunburn
The symptoms of ocular sunburn do not appear immediately after exposure. Instead, they usually manifest several hours later, commonly within 30 minutes to 12 hours. Individuals often experience uncomfortable sensations, including pain varying from mild to severe discomfort, and a gritty feeling, as if sand is in the eyes.
Other common signs include redness of the eyes, excessive tearing, and heightened sensitivity to light, known as photophobia. Blurred vision and a twitching sensation in the eyelids may also occur.
While these symptoms can be distressing, they are generally temporary and tend to resolve within 24 to 72 hours. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by significant vision changes, seeking medical attention is advisable.
Long-Term Impacts of Eye Sun Exposure
While photokeratitis is an acute and temporary condition, chronic or repeated exposure to UV radiation can contribute to more serious, long-term eye health issues. Cumulative UV exposure over a lifetime can accelerate the development of cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s natural lens impairing vision. This long-term exposure is a significant risk factor for their formation.
Another potential long-term consequence is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition damaging the retina’s central part, leading to central vision loss. Prolonged UV exposure can also promote the growth of non-cancerous tissues on the surface of the eye. These include pterygium, a fleshy growth on the conjunctiva that can extend onto the cornea, and pinguecula, a yellowish spot or bump on the conjunctiva.
Essential Eye Protection Strategies
Protecting your eyes from UV radiation is important for preventing both acute photokeratitis and chronic eye conditions. Wearing sunglasses that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB rays is a primary defense. Look for labels indicating “UV400” or “100% UV protection,” as these ensure comprehensive blocking of wavelengths up to 400 nanometers.
For maximum coverage, selecting wraparound styles or larger frames can help shield the eyes from UV rays entering from the sides. It is important to wear sunglasses not only on bright, sunny days but also on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. Protection is important during winter months and around reflective surfaces like snow, water, or sand, amplifying UV exposure. Combining sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat offers an additional layer of protection by reducing the amount of UV light reaching the eyes.