Everyone’s eyes are susceptible to damage from ultraviolet (UV) light, regardless of age or skin pigmentation. But some people are at higher risk. Children have a high risk of sun damage as they play outside, for example. And some studies show that people with certain eye diseases such as retinal dystrophy may also be at higher risk for sun damage.
Protecting Your Eyes from the Sun
When it comes to practicing sun safety, Americans are getting smarter. But in some cases, we’re still in the dark on UV exposure and how to avoid it. Remember to cover up with a hat, glasses and sunscreen!
Did you know that certain medications and features can change your sun sensitivity? It’s true!
Photosensitizing Drugs Increase Sensitivity to Sunlight
Photosensitizing drugs — drugs that make your skin more sensitive to light — can make your eyes more sensitive to light as well. You should discuss precautions with your ophthalmologist if you are taking photosensitizing drugs and wear UV-absorbent sunglasses and a hat whenever you go outside for as long as you take them. Some of the drugs that may increase your risk of UV sensitivity include:
- Antibiotics containing fluoroquinolones and tetracycline (including doxycycline and Cipro)
- Certain birth control and estrogen pills (including Lovral and premarin)
- Phenothiazine (an anti-malarial)
- Psoralens (used in treating psoriasis)
- Anti-inflammatory pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium have also been shown to cause photosensitivity, though the reaction is rare.
Cataract Surgery and UV Damage
People who had cataract surgery years ago may have an elevated risk of UV damage. During this surgery, the eye’s lens is removed, leaving the eye more vulnerable to UV light. The natural lens is usually replaced by an intraocular lens (IOL). Older intraocular lenses absorb much less UV light than ordinary glass or plastic eyeglass lenses. Manufacturers of IOLs now make most of their products UV-absorbent.
Light-Colored Eyes Are at Higher Risk of UV Damage
Have blue or green eyes? Cover up with a hat and glasses to protect your vision. Some studies show that UV exposure and light irises may increase the risk of rare eye cancers, such as melanoma of the iris or uveal melanoma.
However, not everyone knows about the connection. According to an eye sun safety Harris Poll by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 54% of people in the United States reported having light colored eyes (blue, green or hazel), but less than a third of them knew that light-colored eyes are associated with greater risk of certain eye diseases.
This information provided by aao.org
Our practice philosophy at Barth Vision & Optical is simple, though we like to think it reflects a profound sentiment. We are here to be of service, in the truest sense of the term. We offer State-of-the-art eye examinations, A unique collection of fashion eye wear, Cataract surgery & consultation, LASIK vision correction, Eye Care Telemedicine. Call Today for an Appointment (707) 955-1120.
