Protect Your Eyes

Ultimate do's and don'ts in protecting the eyes revealed.

20:28 29 June 2016

Experts believe that eyes are ten times more susceptible to damage than the skin.

 

Russell Peake, an optometrist at Boots Opticians, said: “The eyes' surfaces are more sensitive to UV rays than the skin’s, making them more prone to sun damage.” 

 

UV rays can cause the cornea and the conjunctiva to become inflamed, which can cause temporary blurry vision. Meanwhile, prolonged periods under the sun can cause photokeratitis, which essentially meant sunburnt corneas.  

 

David Anderson, a consultant ophthalmic surgeon at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘Lots of conditions are implicated as a result of long-term UV exposure, even if it is short bursts at a time,’

 

‘This is why it’s important to encourage children to wear sunglasses,’ explains Nigel Best, an optometrist and clinical spokesperson for Specsavers. ‘Because the effects of UV are cumulative, exposure when young can result in eye problems in later life.’

 

As Susan Blakeney, a clinical adviser for the College of Optometrists explains: ‘A pair of sunglasses that meets the UK standards to block enough UV rays and fits well will prevent the immediate side-effects of sun exposure, and the cumulative effects.

 

Reshma Thampy, a consultant ophthalmologist at Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, advised wearing sunglasses at all times. 

 

‘This might seem over-cautious but, actually, UV rays can get through clouds and overcast days can still leave you vulnerable to high levels of UV exposure,’ says Dr Thampy. ‘So wear sunglasses even on cloudy days.’