Eye Diseases
From LoveToKnow Sunglasses
The sun doesn't just burn your skin; it can cause serious eye diseases. LoveToKnow Sunglasses spoke with Dr. Aguirre of the American Academy of Ophthalmology to find out which eye diseases are UV-related, who is at risk, and how you can protect yourself.
UV Related Eye Diseases
LTK: What are some of the most common UV-related eye diseases you see in your patients? Can you explain them? What are some of the symptoms?
Dr. Aguirre: The most common eye diseases secondary to UV rays (usually from sunlight but also other UV emitting devices such as suntan machines) are cataracts and retinal macular degeneration. Absorption of UV rays by the lens of the eye causes the normally clear lens to become cloudy, thus decreasing vision overall. Absorption of the rays by the central retina (called the macula) in the back of the eye causes degeneration of this tissue, which results in decreased central vision or fine pinpoint vision. Fortunately, cataracts can be removed and vision restored in the majority of patients if other significant ocular diseases do not exist. Retinal macular degeneration (dry type) on the other hand is irreversible, resulting in loss of central vision while the eye retains peripheral vision.
UV rays may also cause an abnormal growth of the loose clear tissue (called the conjunctiva) covering the surface of the white of the eye. This abnormal growth is called a pinguecula and in the more advanced stages a pterygium. If left unattended and growth continues on the surface of the eye, it may cover the pupil and thus interfere with clear vision. Continued growth usually requires surgical excision before it reaches the pupil.
Other less common signs or symptoms of unprotected exposure to UV rays may include chronic headaches and wrinkling of the skin around the eye caused by the constant reflex squinting to try to decrease the amount of UV rays entering the eye.
Who Is at Risk
LTK: What is this type of patient's average age?
Dr. Aguirre: Cataracts and macular degeneration usually occur in individuals aged 50 or older but may occur earlier if there is chronic unprotected exposure to UV rays. Pinguecula and pterygia can occur much earlier, even in individuals 18 and over, again depending on the degree and chronicity of unprotected exposure to UV rays.
LTK: Are those with especially sensitive eyes more likely to develop these eye diseases? Or less likely because they tend to need--and reach for--sunglasses more than other groups?
Dr. Aguirre: People with eyes especially sensitive to sunlight or other bright lights do tend to protect themselves more often with sunglasses and in fact probably delay the onset of these conditions, but they are still at risk and should continue to maximally protect themselves.
LTK: Is there any group that is particularly prone to eye diseases caused by UV rays?
Dr. Aguirre: All individuals are prone to the eye conditions caused by UV rays. Those who work in the sun, and thus have chronic exposure, are at somewhat higher risk so maximum protection is recommended. Certain individuals with chronic medical conditions such as Albinism or those who are on certain chronic medications to treat their medical condition may also be at higher risk.
Protect Yourself
LTK: What type of sunglasses do you recommend to your patients to provide maximum UV protection?
Dr. Aguirre: Most moderately priced sunglasses do a very good job of eliminating well over 90 percent of UV rays. If one is chronically exposed to sunlight, such as farmers or beach workers, one might consider sunglasses with side protection as well in order to eliminate stray UV rays coming in from the sides.
LTK: Do you have any other advice for protecting against UV-related eye diseases?
Dr. Aguirre: A good cap with a full bill or a wide-brimmed hat will also decrease the amount of exposure to UV rays. For cataracts, pinguecula, pterygia, headaches and wrinkling, the best advice is to avoid chronic or overexposure to UV rays or to wear the appropriate protection when under these conditions.
Treatment
LTK: How are eye diseases treated? Can they be cured or just be prevented from getting worse?
Dr. Aguirre: See above for the treatment of cataracts, pinguecula, pterygia and headaches. If dry macular degeneration develops, some studies indicate that the use of vitamins containing lutein and other minerals may be helpful in slowing the progression of the condition. However, it is not curative.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 736 times. This page was last modified 16:51, 13 January 2009.
© 2006-2009 LoveToKnow Corp.
Print this page
Follow ltk on twitter
Visit us on facebook