Current Course Topic:
Prolonged or improper exposure to sun rays can cause damage to the eyes, as well as damage to the skin.
UVB radiation threatens the outside portions of the eye: the cornea, conjunctiva and crystalline lens, causing irritation, dryness, inflammation (keratitis) and precocious aging (photo-aging). UVA radiation is the most harmful to both the skin and eyes because the rays are shorter and able to penetrate furthest into the eye, damaging the retina.
Cataracts and macular degeneration are the most common eye diseases caused by the sun. Like skin diseases caused by exposure to sunlight, the eye disorders develop gradually over many years.
The use of protective sunglasses that can screen UV rays should begin during childhood. By minimizing the exposure to solar radiation, it is possible to prevent the damage to ocular tissues and delay the development of ultraviolet-related eye diseases.