UV radiation damages almost every part of our eyes, from the cornea at the front to the light-sensitive retina at the back, as well as the eyelids and the skin surrounding the eyes.
No matter if it's cloudy, foggy or even snowing, the sun still produces UV rays and these rays can penetrate any cover.
In addition to faster ageing of the eye, excessive exposure to UV radiation increases the risk of several eye diseases and vision problems.
One of the best ways to prevent sun damage to our eyes is to avoid being outdoors between 10am - 4pm, the period when UV rays are at their maximum.
Of course, this is not always possible, so it is very important to take extra measures to protect our eyes while outside.
Sunglasses are of course the first line of protection. We wear them wherever we are outdoors. We choose glasses with large frames that wrap around the eyes to prevent UV rays from penetrating the sides of the glasses. It is necessary to make sure that the sunglasses we choose offer 100% protection from UV radiation. It is advisable to wear a wide-brimmed hat in addition to the glasses.
Similarly, we should protect our children's eyes throughout the year with the appropriate sunglasses. The pupils of the eyes of children and adolescents are much more at risk from the ultraviolet rays of the sun than those of adults.
In fact, children are at greater risk, as the retina in minors absorbs 70% more light than that of adults.
Also, light eyes are even more sensitive, as their pupils have less pigment.
We should not forget that even if we use contact lenses, it is necessary to wear sunglasses.
Finally, it is good to know who are the most vulnerable groups to UV radiation:
- Those who have cataracts or have had cataract surgery.
- Those with glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, aniridia, melancholic retinopathy and aphakia.
- Those who have undergone refractive surgery.
- Children, because they have a larger diameter pupil and a clearer crystalline lens.
