May is UV Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about the hidden dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation—and how it can impact not just your skin, but also your vision. While applying sunscreen is second nature for most, far fewer people take steps to protect their eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
At Mississippi Retina Associates, we want to ensure our patients understand the importance of year-round eye protection. Your retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye, can be especially vulnerable to UV-related damage. And once retinal damage occurs, it may not be reversible.
How UV Light Affects the Eyes
The sun emits UVA and UVB rays, both of which can contribute to cumulative damage to your eyes over time. Here are just a few conditions linked to unprotected UV exposure:
- Macular Degeneration: Prolonged UV exposure may accelerate the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. AMD damages the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision and fine detail.
- Cataracts: UV rays can speed up changes in the eye’s natural lens, contributing to the development of cataracts. Cataracts cause the lens to become cloudy, leading to blurred or impaired vision.
- Photokeratitis: Often referred to as “sunburn of the eye,” photokeratitis is a painful condition caused by short-term overexposure to UV rays. Symptoms include red eyes, a gritty sensation, light sensitivity, and excessive tearing. It’s especially common after time spent around water, sand, snow, or other reflective surfaces.
Even on overcast days, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. So daily eye protection is essential—not just during beach vacations or summer hikes.
Simple Ways to Shield Your Eyes
The good news? Protecting your eyes from UV damage doesn’t require much effort. A few simple steps can go a long way:
- Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for a label confirming full UV protection. Polarized lenses can also reduce glare, which is helpful when you’re around reflective surfaces.
- Opt for wraparound or large-framed sunglasses. These offer broader coverage to prevent rays from sneaking in at the sides.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat. This adds another layer of protection by reducing the amount of UV exposure from above.
- Limit direct sun exposure during peak UV hours. This is typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Be mindful of reflective environments. Water, sand, concrete, and snow can reflect UV rays, increasing your exposure.
To learn more, the American Academy of Ophthalmology offers helpful guidance on sun safety for your eyes.
See a Retina Specialist if You Notice These Symptoms
Early signs of retinal damage can be subtle but should never be ignored. If you experience any of the following, it’s time to see a retina specialist:
- Flashes of light or sudden floaters in your vision
- Distorted or blurry central vision
- A dark or empty area in your line of sight
- Vision that seems dimmer or less vibrant than usual
These could indicate serious conditions such as a retinal tear, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy—and prompt evaluation can make all the difference.
At Mississippi Retina Associates, we provide expert care for diseases of the retina, macula, and vitreous. With multiple convenient locations and a commitment to cutting-edge diagnostics and treatment, our goal is to protect and preserve your vision—every season of the year.
Schedule an appointment today to ensure your eyes are as protected as your skin this summer.
