Snow Blindness
It’s finally winter and you’re planning on going to the slopes. A few things to remember about snow before you head out there!
Sunburn On the Eye
Though the sun rays are not as strong in the winter as in the summer, it is quite possible to get sunburned during the winter. Any prolonged exposure to the sun can result in burns on the body. Two additional factors can increase your risk of getting burned.
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Altitude- Increased altitudes shorten the distance between you and the sun, making the exposure more intense. The World Health Organization has quoted that with every 1,000 meter increase in altitude, UV levels begin to elevate 10%-12%.
- Snow- Snow acts as a highly effective reflector. You are then exposed to both the UV rays that hit you directly and indirectly from the rays that hit the snow first then reflect onto you.
What Happens If Your Eyes Get Burned?
PHOTOKERATITIS
The cornea, the front portion of the eye, burns from the sunrays, leading to symptoms of pain, sensitivity to the light, large reduction in vision, foreign body sensation, red eyelids, headaches, and even glare and halo around lights. So what can be done to prevent it?
WEAR PROTECTIVE GOGGLES
Wearing snow goggles or sunglasses that wrap around the head. Ensure the lens provides 100% of UV-A and UV-B rays.
If you are concerned about your eyes or have symptoms similar to what is listed above, please contact the office for a visit.