Throughout the year as we spend time outside, many of us will experience eye damage from the sun; it happens to the best of us! Forgetting your sunglasses, or not having proper UV protectant sunglasses, and spending too much time in the sun are all culprits of potential eye damage, and as UV rays are prevalent all throughout the year, this can happen during any season. If you fear that you have received damage to your eyes from the sun, here is what our experts have to say about how you can tell, and how you can heal from it.
How To Tell If Your Eyes Have Sun Damage
Photokeratitis is the most common form of sun damage to the eyes. Photokeratitis refers to the sunburning of one’s corneas. It happens to many people who are in the sun too long without proper protection and can be identified by:
- Irritation or the feeling of something (like sand) being in your eyes
- Watery eyes
- Bloodshot eyes
- Sensitivity to the light
How The Sun Is Damaging Your Eyes
Photokeratitis and snow blindness are very common, especially when you don’t wear proper protection or spend more time in the sun than is advised. You can damage your eyes in several different ways including outdoor exposure, indoor exposure, or even exposure to UV lights that don’t come from the sun like tanning beds. This is why it’s so important to consistently protect your eyes from UV rays all year-’round by wearing sunglasses, goggles, and other protective equipment when necessary and staying out of the sun for prolonged periods of time.
How To Heal Your Eyes From Sun Damage
Photokeratitis and snow blindness are usually quite easy to treat and heal from. Like most sunburns, photokeratitis will heal itself within a few days if you choose to stay away from sunlight and rest. However, if you’re experiencing more significant issues than those listed above including cataracts or partial vision loss, you must consult an optometrist as soon as possible to diagnose and treat the issue.
Interested in getting your eyes checked for damage?
Arrange an appointment at your local Hakim Optical and see an optometrist for an update!
Hakim Optical has been providing Canadians with quality corrective lenses at a value that can’t be beat for over 50 years. Our knowledgeable staff and optometrists are here to help you find an eyewear solution tailored specifically to you.
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