Have you ever wondered why you should wear sunglasses when you are outside? UV protection is the answer. If you are exposed to too much UV light (found in sunlight), your eyes may become sunken or worse.
Sunburned eyes are called photokeratitis. Don’t stress too much when this condition occurs, though, as it usually happens after spending a little time in the sun, and it usually goes away after a few days.
Working and spending time in areas with high amounts of UV light throughout your life can lead to serious eye problems, including but not limited to cataracts. Knowing the potential effects of UV light exposure, you may be wondering, ‘Can your eyes heal from sun damage?’ let’s find out.
Can your eyes heal from sun damage?
Yes, if mild cases of photokeratitis are caused by it, your eyes can heal from sun damage. More often than not, photokeratitis subsides in a short period of time — as long as you get out of the sun right away.
Pay attention to these symptoms:
- a strange feeling as if you have sand or other material in your eye
- red eyes
- sensitivity to bright light
- watery eyes
While signs of eye damage, these side effects of sun exposure are often short-lived. Just remember that the longer you’re in the sun, the more likely you are to have worse-than-usual symptoms, such as problems seeing. Constant exposure to UV rays without eye protection also increases your chances of getting age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or cataracts along the line.
Cataracts and other eye diseases may not be so easy to remove. You need to work with an eye doctor to find the best treatment for sun damage to your eyes. Luckily, our independent doctors of optometry are experts in working with all kinds of conditions, including cataracts, so it’s easy to get the answers you need.
Can sunscreen damage your eyes?
Photokeratitis, or snow blindness, can be caused by direct sunlight or its reflection on a beach, snow, lake, or snow. So, yes, sunlight can damage your eyes.
Just remember that the sun isn’t the only type of UV light your eyes are used to. If you are self-employed, you will be using a solarium bed that distributes UV light. Various forms of welding can also increase your risk.
Any kind of UV light can affect your eyes inside and out. If you work in a hazardous environment with a lot of UV radiation, consider UV-blocking sports glasses.
Generic glasses with a UV protection coating work for everyday chores, while sunglasses that protect against at least 99 percent of UV rays are essential for your time. Make sure your sunglasses cover the sides of your eyes to eliminate damage in these areas.
Can your eyes heal from the sun?
Summary: Is sun damage to your eyes reversible?
Every time you go outside, you risk getting eye irritation, also known as photokeratitis. Photokeratitis can be caused by exposure to the sun or its reflection. This may be due to the many hours at the beach or in the mountains, as it is the amount of UV light that takes to your eyes that affects you rather than the time spent outside.
Fortunately, your eyes can heal from sun damage. If you have photokeratitis, you only need a few days. However, keep in mind that more serious conditions such as cataracts can be more serious. For people who suspect eye disease or other serious eye problems, contact your eye doctor immediately and get prescription sunglasses. The optical experts at For Eyes can help.
