Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is divided into three types:
· UVA Rays: These are the longest UV rays and can penetrate deep into the skin and eyes. They are responsible for skin aging and can also contribute to the formation of cataracts and macular degeneration over time.
· UVB Rays: These rays are responsible for sunburns. They affect the outer layers of the skin and can also cause damage to the eyes, increasing the risk of conditions like photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea) and cataracts.
· UVC Rays: The most dangerous type of UV radiation, but fortunately, these are absorbed by the Earth's ozone layer and do not typically reach the surface.
Consequences of UV Exposure:
Extended exposure to UVA and UVB rays can have several harmful effects on your eyes:
· Cataracts: Prolonged UV exposure can accelerate the clouding of the lens in your eye, leading to cataracts, which can impair vision and require surgery for correction.
· Macular Degeneration: UV rays can damage the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, leading to age-related macular degeneration.
· Photokeratitis: Just like a sunburn on your skin, UV radiation can burn the surface of your eyes, causing pain, redness, and temporary vision loss.
· Increased Risk of Skin Cancer: The skin around your eyes is highly sensitive and vulnerable to UV radiation, increasing the risk of developing skin cancers near the eyes, such as basal cell carcinoma.