We know that solar radiation can cause irreversible damage to the skin, but few are aware of the damage it causes in the eye, an organ very sensitive to light structures. Are the reasons why, from now on, take care over your eyes at this time of year.
Our eyes are more exposed to radiation Ultra Violet (UV) and infrared (IR) when these impact most directly on the eyes, which is precisely what happens in winter, because the sun is at a lower altitude. "By using sunglasses to not dazzle us, we are more comfortable but no more protected, as the pupils dilate by decreasing visible radiation, allowing the entry of harmful radiations UV and IR," says Oriol Cusó, optical IndoAcademy optometrist and Director, Department of Indo company formation. In addition, says the expert, "the most solar glasses, and even white, protect us from UV but not the IR."
Sunlight and types of radiation
The radiation emitted by the sun include a wide spectrum of frequencies but which are essential to life on earth is only a small part of the total: ultraviolet (UV), visible light and infrared radiation (IR), such as revealed by Dr. Xavier Cafaupé manager Innova Ocular (Clinical Ferreruela).
So, the doctor explains that the ultraviolet rays are not visible to the human eye and represent 5% of solar radiation. They are divided into:
UVC. The ozone layer is responsible to stop them, but their deterioration allows increasing amounts of this radiation reaches, resulting in danger of (the World Health Organization warns that the deterioration of the ozone layer will increase the number of cataracts, now, cataracts cause over 17 million cases of blindness per year).
UVB. These are capable of causing painful corneal burns, but the lens protects the rest of the eye.
UVA. They are the most dangerous, penetrate the cornea and the lens, leading to damage to the retina. Other consequences caused by these rays are cataracts and, in extreme cases, blindness. They also accelerate the aging eye.
Visible light represents 39% of solar radiation. It is that the human eye can perceive. Over time it can cause macular degeneration.
Infrared rays account for 56% of solar radiation, are invisible under normal conditions do not damage the eye, says Dr. Cafaupé. Transparent media of the eye naturally absorb infrared water because they contain. Still, there is a risk in extreme overheating of the cornea.
The best way to avoid this threat is through eye protection, using sunglasses, also in winter. In this regard, Dr. Cafaupé insists that sunglasses are much more than a fashion, they protect the eyes from damage that can be serious. So it says the quality of the lens sunscreen is essential. "Using poor quality glasses can be more harmful than nothing to protect our eyes," he explains.
Factors that increase the risk of sun exposure
In addition to protecting the eyes, Dr. Xavier Cafaupé, Innova Ocular warns that there are some factors that increase the risk of sun exposure to the eyes.
Altitude. The higher the altitude, the less atmosphere to protect us and therefore more solar radiation.
Latitude. We are closer of Ecuador, the greater the danger. Also, ozone depletion, especially located around the South Pole increases the risk in regions of Antarctica.
Season. In the northern hemisphere the months of June and July are the most dangerous in the southern hemisphere and the risk is higher in the months of December and January.
The time. Between 10.00 am and 14 hours maximum solar radiation is concentrated.
Clouds. We are not protected, because let in 90% of ultraviolet radiation. It is a misconception that we can do without the sunglasses if it is cloudy or if the light bothers us less.
The environment. Solar radiation 20% sand, 30% water and 90% increases in the snow.
Age. Be especially careful with children because their eyes are particularly vulnerable to the sun. Up to 18 years Crystal has not completed their training. They should use adequate protection.
The color of the eyes. People with blue eyes have less natural protection.
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