May 2022
Ultraviolet Awareness
Here comes the sun, doo-doo-doo-doo,
Here comes the sun, and I say,
It’s all right… (within reason)
This classic Beatles song brings a smile to our faces as we anticipate the summer months ahead, and the outdoor fun that awaits us. Beach days, boating, hiking, and the many sporting activities we partake in, however, can leave us vulnerable to the effects of the sun and its ultraviolet rays.
What Are Ultraviolet Rays?
Ultraviolet radiation is the emission of energy from the sun. UV rays (UV-A & UV-B) have many effects on us. On a positive note, ultraviolet rays induce our bodies to produce vitamin D, essential to a healthy body. However, less than 15 minutes 2 -3 days a week is all a body needs to get the recommended weekly dose. On a not so positive note, too much sun has detrimental effects on our bodies, including sunburns, cancer, and eye problems.
Ultraviolet rays are divided into 3 types, depending on their wavelength.
- UV-A rays have the longest wavelength and carry the least amount of energy. These rays are NOT absorbed by the earth’s ozone layer and therefore get through to the earth’s surface. UV-A rays cause minimal skin damage (wrinkles and premature aging) but can cause damage to the central vision by damaging the macula and retina at the back of the eye.
- UV-B rays have a medium wavelength. The ozone layer absorbs some of these rays, but not all. The UV-B rays are responsible for those blistering sunburns if skin is left unprotected. In addition, UV-B rays also cause greater damage to the front of the eye by affecting the corneal surface and the natural lens behind it. The damage to the eye from UV-B rays tends to be more damaging to the eyes than the UV-A rays, but neither are good for our vision.
- UV-C rays have the shortest wavelength and carry the MOST energy. However, they are the least dangerous, as they rarely reach the earth’s surface because the ozone layer almost completely absorbs these UV-C rays.
The Damage Caused by Ultraviolet Rays
We have been told throughout the years that a blistering sunburn makes us more susceptible to skin cancer as we age. Children and teens under 18 tend to be the most at risk, as well fair skinned people, and those on certain medications. We have all heard the warnings and recommendations that sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater is advised and to limit our time in the midday sun. Skin cancer is a well-known danger from overexposure to the sun and its harmful rays, but the dangers and damage to our eyes is not so well known, but equally problematic.
Ultraviolet light causes the following damage to our eyesight if unprotected:
- Cataracts – Overexposure to the sun may hasten the development of cataracts. A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens that lies behind the cornea and iris. Most people develop cataracts later in life, beginning around the age of 60. Extreme sun exposure can lead to premature cataract development, and potentially the need for cataract extraction at a much earlier age.
- Macular Degeneration – The retina, at the back of the eye, is the brain center of the eye. It deciphers the images reflected onto the macula (located in the center of the retina) by sending signals to the brain. When the macula is damaged, the images are not sharp. The brain deciphers these images and send back a message of blurry central vision, making it difficult to read or clearly see things that are right in front of us.
- Cancer of the Eye – The harmful UV rays can damage eyelid skin, as well as the surface of the eye. While eye cancer is rare, it often goes undetected as there is little to no pain associated with it. However, if darkening spots appear on the surface of the eye, or it there is some unusual vision loss or pain with eye movement, a visit to the eye doctor is crucial.
- Pinguecula and Pterygium – These are bumps on the surface of the eye. A pinguecula does not interfere with vision, as it is solely in the white of the eye. A pterygium, however, migrates into the cornea, and will affect vision if left untreated. Both of these conditions are directly related to sun exposure.
- Photokeratitis – This condition is also called snow blindness. The suns reflection off of snow, sand or water can cause a temporary vision loss or blindness that can be extremely painful.
Protecting From Harmful UV Rays
The damage caused by UV rays can have lasting effects and debilitating outcomes if we are not careful to protect ourselves from their dangers. The simplest way to protect our eyesight is to invest in a pair of good sunglasses. They do not have to be expensive but should always indicate protection against UV-A and UV-B rays. Additional forms of protection can also be considered for maximum protection.
- Sunglasses
- Prescription or non-prescription
- UVA & UVB protection of 99-100%
- An inexpensive add on to any eyeglass prescription
- Polarization and glare protection
- Ensure proper fit and comfort
- Check for color distortion
- Choose sunglasses for your activity
- Impact resistance
- Wrap around for cycling or activities with greater wind effect
- Wide brimmed hats
- The larger the brim the greater the protection
- Protection from all angles
- Sunscreen
- SPF 15 or greater
- Sunscreen for face and eyes – non-stinging
- Wear loose fitting, tightly woven clothing for extra protection
- Avoid or take extra precautions during the midday hours between 10 AM and 4 PM
We encourage everyone to enjoy the great outdoors, get physical activity, and soak up the sun wisely! Remember, the shrinking ozone layer increases the harmful effects of UV rays. Protect yourself, your skin, and your eyes. If you think you may have been harmed by excessive exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.allaboutvision.com
