We are all aware of the harmful effects of UV rays on our skin, but few realize the risks to our eyesight

Our eyes are ten times more sensitive to UV rays than our skin. We are all aware of the damage ultraviolet rays can cause to our skin, but few realize the risks to our eyes. This was stated by Dr. Ralitsa Kermedchieva, head of the “Eye Diseases” Department at the specialized eye hospital “Pentagram,” on the program “Morning in Focus” on Radio “Focus” with host Asya Alexandrova.

UV light penetrates eye tissues more easily than visible light, potentially increasing the risk of eye problems. The effect on the eyes can be short-term or long-term.

“The surface of the eye can get sunburned, leading to photokeratitis, and in the long term, it can lead to the development of cataracts, which is considered a leading cause of reversible blindness worldwide. Studies show that prolonged UV exposure without protection increases the risk of macular degeneration,” explained Dr. Kermedchieva.

The harmful effects are mainly from UV-A rays. UV-B rays help increase vitamin D levels in the body but are also the main cause of skin sunburn.

Wearing sunglasses with a high UV400 index blocks 99 to 100% of UV rays. This is essential to avoid long-term damage, emphasized the specialist.

UV rays are not blocked by clouds, and our eyes can be at risk even on cloudy days. The strength of UV rays multiplies on the beach and in winter due to the reflection of the sun’s rays from sand and snow.

With increasing altitude, atmospheric pressure decreases, leading to increased UV exposure.

“With every 1000 meters of altitude gain, UV radiation increases by 10%. In combination with a snowy surface, this can lead to direct eye damage and snow blindness, which is corneal damage associated with eye pain and blurred vision.

The condition is reversible, with a recovery period of 24 to 48 hours, often requiring medication. Polarized sunglasses are most suitable for hiking and staying at high altitudes as they reduce sun glare by filtering reflected light and allowing only vertical light,” explained Dr. Kermedchieva.

The lens color of sunglasses can enhance their overall benefit. Gray lenses are suitable for all weather conditions, explained Dr. Kermedchieva.

“They provide the most natural color perception. Brown lenses offer excellent depth perception and contrast improvement. Green lenses are popular with mirrored lenses and, combined with polarization, provide very good vision in sunny and low-light conditions, enhancing contrast. Yellow lenses are more effective in low-light environments, especially on foggy and cloudy days. Blue lenses improve clarity and color perception and outline contours. Red and pink lenses increase contrast by blocking blue light. Mirrored and polarized lenses combined with polarization provide optimal UV protection and increase vision clarity,” she explained.

The tint percentage of lenses ranges from 0 to 4, with 3 and 4 being the highest levels. They are not suitable for drivers as they block most of the light, added Dr. Kermedchieva.

It’s good for the size of the sunglasses to match the shape of the face and fit well on the nose to provide the necessary tint and protection from side light penetration, noted the specialist.

People with light eyes are more sensitive to sunlight because they have less pigmentation in the eye layers than those with darker eyes.

“They are unable to block the effects of sunlight. This can lead to difficulties in seeing or focusing in such strong light, sometimes even causing eye pain. Therefore, it is highly recommended for them to wear sunglasses,” recommended Dr. Kermedchieva.

The full interview can be heard at: https://www.focus-news.net/novini/Bylgaria/Ochen-lekar-Vsichki-sme-nayasno-s-vredite-na-UV-luchite-koito-mogat-da-nanesat-vreda-na-kozhata-ni-no-malcina-ot-nas-osuznavat-riskovete-2628061