Summer has arrived. The scorching heat and hot waves have pushed us to slow down our pace. Loss of water and salts make our body tired and fatigued. Dry hot winds in addition have also affected our eyes health. Office people and schoolchildren have been affected the most during this time.  

Do you know that your eyes can get Sun burned? 

We are aware of bad effects of sun rays (UV rays) on skin but they are equally bad for our eyes. UV rays are of three types A, B and C. UVA penetrates through cornea and has potential to cause cataract and macular degenerative changes. UVB is absorbed at level of cornea and conjunctiva and has potential to cause corneal burn known as photo-keratitis. Pingecula and pterygium are the other damages caused to conjunctiva. Out of all UVC is most dangerous, but is mostly absorbed by ozone layer. Besides all these, UV rays also have the potential to be carcinogenic.

Is SUN GAZING safe?

Many people practice looking at the sun as a ritual. If it is must, look away from the direction of sun. Looking directly at the sun is never recommended. It takes less than 2 min to damage your retina if you do direct sun gazing. 

Can eyes get blind from sun-rays?

No, you don’t get total blindness. Fortunately, most of the damage caused by sunrays are temporary, but if prolonged exposure to macula has been there, permanent damage to vision may occur. Though, one can reach the level of legal blindness.

 Can damage to eyes be reversed? 

If the exposure has not been for long, then the damage can get healed with medicines and avoiding sun exposure.  Photo keratitis responds well to anti-inflammatory and lubricants. Pterygium and pingecula needs surgical excision. Significant cataract requires removal with IOL implantation. If macula develops hole, then it requires surgical closure. 

Prevention is Better than cure: Know how to protect your Eyes 

The best prevention is to protect your eyes from sun exposure. It will reduce the chances of developing the above discussed problems in long run. Even the fine lines around eyes will also reduce. Always use good quality UV protected sunglasses whenever you step out. Keep your face covered to the extent possible. Use wide brim hat or umbrella to prevent sun rays to enter your eyes. Limit your time in sun. If possible, leave the house for work in early morning or late evening hours. Keep your body well hydrated and apply sunscreen to keep yourself healthy.

Dr. Lakshmi Kuniyal

Ophthalmologist

Phaco and Retina surgeon