Somtimes we buy sunshades (tinted lens) in the market without consulting an eye doctor (optometrist).
We normally think that the aim of the sunshade is to dim the light from the sun. That is a half truth, sunshades should also protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun.
So, when we buy sunshades without UV protection, we ended up exposing our eyes to the ultraviolet radiation.
Brief explanation of how these ‘’non ultraviolet sunshades’’ are damaging your eyes without you knowing it.
As you know, when you are under the sun [outdoors] without sunshades, you squint ie narrowing of your eyes, and your pupils constrict to reduce the amount of glare that enters your eyes, without reducing the amount of ultraviolet radiation, thereby causing more harm to your eyes.
UV radiation, whether from natural sunlight or artificial UV rays, can seriously damage your eyes.
Most people probably understand the link between ultraviolet (UV) radiation and skin cancer. But many are less aware of the connection between UV radiation and eye damage.
With increased levels of UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, it is important to take the necessary precautions to protect your eyes.
What Is UV Light?
The sun’s primary danger to us comes in the form of UV light or radiation. UV radiation is a component of solar radiation. Artificial sources like welding machines, tanning beds, and lasers can also give off UV radiation.
There are three types of UV radiation. UV-C is absorbed by the ozone layer and does not present any threat. UV-A and UV-B radiation can have adverse long- and short-term effects on the eyes and vision.
How Does UV Light Affect Eyesight?
Both long- and short-term exposure to UV radiation can harm the eyes, affect vision, and compromise overall eye health. There are several eye diseases and conditions caused or aggravated by exposure to UV radiation, such as:
Macular Degeneration: Macular Degeneration (AMD) is caused by damage to the retina over time and is the leading cause of age-related blindness. Extended exposure to UV light increases your risk of developing macular degeneration.
Cataracts: A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens — the part of the eye that focuses the light we see. UV light, especially UV-B rays, increases your risk for certain types of cataracts. It is estimated that 10% of all cataract cases are directly attributable to UV exposure.
Pterygium: Pterygium is a pink, non-cancerous growth that forms on the layer of conjunctiva over the white of your eye. UV light from the sun is believed to be a factor in the development of these growths.
Skin Cancer: Skin cancer in and around the eyelids is also linked to prolonged UV exposure.
Photokeratitis. Also known as corneal sunburn or “snow blindness,” photokeratitis is the result of high short-term exposure to UV-B rays. Long hours at the beach or skiing without proper eye protection can cause this problem. It can be very painful and may cause temporary vision loss.