Ultraviolet (UV) light is a form of electromagnetic radiation found naturally in sunlight, but also present in various artificial sources like welding arcs, tanning beds, and germicidal lamps. Accidental exposure to these invisible rays can occur, potentially affecting the eyes. Understanding the immediate and long-term consequences of such exposure is important for eye health, helping individuals recognize symptoms and take appropriate steps.
Immediate Effects on Your Eyes
Accidental exposure to intense UV light can result in a painful condition known as photokeratitis, often likened to a sunburn of the eye. This condition damages the epithelial cells on the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye, and can also affect the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. Symptoms manifest between 30 minutes and 12 hours after exposure, as the damage develops.
Common symptoms of photokeratitis include eye pain, redness, a gritty sensation, excessive tearing, blurry vision, and heightened sensitivity to light. Swelling of the eyelids, headaches, and temporary visual disturbances like halos or color changes can also occur. This temporary damage usually resolves within one to two days.
Long-Term Eye Health Concerns
While acute UV exposure leads to temporary conditions like photokeratitis, cumulative or prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation can contribute to several long-term eye health concerns. One such concern is the development of cataracts, where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy. UV rays can cause proteins within the lens to break down and clump together, leading to impaired vision over time.
Another condition associated with chronic UV exposure is pterygium, a wing-shaped growth of tissue that starts on the white part of the eye and can extend onto the cornea. Pinguecula appears as a yellowish, slightly raised patch on the conjunctiva, near the edge of the cornea. Both are non-cancerous, though a pterygium can sometimes grow large enough to affect vision or cause discomfort.
Recognizing When to Get Medical Help
Although photokeratitis often resolves without specific medical intervention, seek professional help when necessary. Seek immediate medical attention for severe, persistent, or worsening eye pain, or significant vision changes. These could include persistent blurriness, shadowy areas, or the continued sensation of something in your eye.
Signs of a potential eye infection, such as pus or thick discharge, increased redness or swelling around the eye, or a fever, also warrant urgent medical consultation. An eye care professional can accurately diagnose the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent complications. They may use specialized drops to highlight damaged areas on the eye’s surface for better assessment.
Caring for Your Eyes After Exposure
If you suspect UV exposure, moving indoors and resting your eyes in a darkened room can help manage immediate discomfort. Removing contact lenses promptly is advisable, as they can trap heat and further irritate the eyes. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation or cause further damage.
Applying a cool, damp washcloth over closed eyes can help reduce swelling and provide some relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, may be taken to alleviate pain and discomfort. Artificial tears can also be used to lubricate the eyes and reduce irritation. If a doctor prescribes eye drops, such as antibiotics, follow their instructions carefully, even if symptoms begin to improve.