Ophthalmologist Prof. Dr. Nur Acar Göçgil warned that exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun for a long time can cause serious diseases such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and pterygium.
UV rays are known as harmful infrared and ultraviolet rays from the sun. The wavelength of these rays is higher in summer and at noon. We are exposed to UV rays in all seasons and at all hours of the day. Exposure time and level of protection are an important factor in determining the effect of UV rays.
“Harmful effects clinically proven”
Stating that the harmful effects of prolonged exposure to sunlight on the eyelids, cornea and lens of the eye have been clinically proven, Prof. Dr. Nur Acar Göçgil said, “Short-term UV radiation can cause corneal inflammation (photokeratitis). This may cause effects such as pain, redness, foreign body sensation, hypersensitivity to light, and accelerated aging. The more the eyes are exposed to UV radiation, the greater the risk of eye conditions and age-related eye diseases due to the cumulative effect of UV damage.”
UV rays pave the way for many eye diseases
Expressing that UV rays prepare the ground for many eye diseases, Prof. Göçgil said, “Exposure to UV-A and UV-B rays can cause burns in the cornea, which is the transparent layer of the eye, and can cause pterygium disease, known as ‘bird’s wing’ on the tissue called the conjunctiva. Likewise, sun rays can damage retinal cells and cause age-related macular degeneration (yellow spot disease). Exposure to UV rays can accelerate cataract development and cause permanent changes in the retina of the eye, resulting in vision loss.” He said that permanent and non-correctable distortions may occur in the macula, the region of the retina layer in the center of the posterior wall of the eye and the region with the highest visual acuity.
Extremely harmful to living tissues
Reminding that our eye lens does not have a self-renewal feature, Prof. Göçgil said, “Although our body usually has the ability to repair and regenerate damaged cells, the eye lens is an exception and cannot be renewed. Therefore, cataract disease can occur as a result of damage to the proteins on the lens over time. This damage can be increased by the effect of UV radiation. Due to excessive exposure to UV rays during childhood, a person receives 80% of the UV rays they are exposed to in their lifetime until the age of 18. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are extremely harmful to living tissues. In eyes exposed to excessive UV light, the risk of developing cancer in the skin around the eyes, eyelids and intraocular tissues increases. made a statement.”
It is important to stay away from the sun rays at noon
Referring to the measures that can be taken to protect from UV rays in the summer months, Prof. Dr. Nur Acar Göçgil used the following statements in the continuation of her statement:
“It is important to stay away from the sun’s rays, especially between 10:00 and 14:00. For both adults and children, it is necessary to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that provide UV protection. It is important that the sunglasses are sized to block the rays coming from the side of the eye. The use of hats and sunglasses provides extra protection by blocking UV rays seasonally and temporarily. Sunglasses improve clarity of vision, prevent eye strain and protect eyes from harmful UV rays.
Consider these points when choosing sunglasses
Unfortunately, not all sunglasses are enough to protect from UV rays. Despite their attractive appearance, the glasses can be harmful if the glasses do not have ultraviolet protection. It should be noted that the glasses of the sunglasses are full of UV protection. Full UV protection means that sunglass lenses provide at least 99 percent blocking of both UVA and UVB rays. Especially when you are by the sea, it is important to choose sunglasses with UV400 protection.
If sunglasses without UV protection are chosen, our eyes will reflexively dilate our pupils, thinking that they are entering a darker environment due to the dark glass color. The person will be able to look at the sun more easily because of the dark glasses. This can cause more ultraviolet light to enter the eyes. Therefore, sunglasses with a UV protection certificate should be preferred.”
Stating that the eyes of people who constantly work outdoors, people who have had refractive surgery or cataract surgery, and individuals with retinal disease, are more sensitive to the harmful effects of sun rays, Prof. Dr. Nur Acar Göçgil also emphasized that these people should be more careful to protect their eye health.
