Sunburn in Eyes: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatments

Sunglasses were invented for a reason-not for the blind, not for the elite, and not as a fashion statement- they were invented for the sole purpose of protecting your eyes from the harmful UV radiation caused by long exposure to the sun's rays. Like your skin and hair follicles, your eyes can also succumb to damage upon exposure to harmful UV rays. 

Sunburn in eyes, also known as photokeratitis, is a painful condition caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds. This type of Sunburn can lead to symptoms such as redness, tearing, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. In severe cases, it can even cause temporary vision loss. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for Sunburn in the eyes, as well as steps you can take to prevent it from happening.

What is Sunburn in the eyes?

Sunburn in the eyes, also known as photokeratitis or ultraviolet photokeratitis, is the damage caused to the eyes due to long exposure to harmful UV rays. The cornea gets inflamed and causes pain and irritation to the eyes. Photokeratitis is temporary and does not cause serious damage to the eyes. However, the symptoms it brings with it are painful and often hinder your daily activities. The only way to protect yourself from such an occurrence is by blocking any harmful radiation to your eyes by using protective eyewear. Long exposure to the sun over months and years can also cause poor vision, temporary vision loss, cataract formation at a young age, and retinal damage. Watch out for these signs and symptoms that will help you make a quick decision in the safety interest of your eyes. 

Also Read: 10 Superfoods to Improve Eyesight

What signs & Symptoms occur due to Sunburn in Eyes?

If your occupation or work inherently involves long exposure to the sun's rays or devices that emit UV radiation, here are a few signs that may appear familiar:

• Intense burning sensation in the eyes
• Throbbing headaches 
• Persistent tearing, eyes appear swollen. 
• Pain in the back of the eye that can again lead to a headache
• Pain while moving the eye from left to right; is usually a sign of too much strain on the eyeball.
• The appearance of a halo around objects and people is a rather serious symptom, and you should seek medical advice for this.
• Blurred vision
• Redness in the eye
• Drying in the eyes
• Loss of vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Shadow in vision
• Complications in the eyelids
  • Loss of eyelashes, i.e., the lashes may fall off slowly. 
  • Thickening of the skin in the eyelids
  • Growth in the eyelids- a small mass may grow just under the eyelids. 
• Complications of sunburned eyes
  • Cataracts
  • Macular degeneration
  • Eyelid cancer

Also, Read Is Reading Books On Phone Bad For Eyes?

What causes Sunburned Eyes? 

Sunburn in the eyes is primarily caused by exposure to harmful UV radiation in one of the following manners:

1. Direct exposure to sunlight

• Staying outdoors for long hours daily.
• Witnessing a solar eclipse and looking directly at the sun with naked eyes. 

2. Water

• Sea water, lakes, rivers, and even swimming pools strongly reflect sunlight. While you may be out enjoying a sunny day at the beach, your eyes might be crying silent tears.
• Similarly, ice glaciers can also reflect sunlight that goes directly into your eyes, exposing you to harmful rays.

3. UV Devices

Besides the sun being a massive source of UV radiation, several man-made devices emit synthetic UV rays that are equally harmful to the naked eye.

• Lasers- such as those used for a presentation.
• Tanning booths- these booths are equipped with IR or UV tubes that emit radiation that tans the skin. 
• Fluorescent/ incandescent lamps/ tube lights are typically low-dose UV emitters. The UV radiation from such devices is not deemed harmful but can surely irritate the eyes upon exposure. 
• Welding equipment- sparks that emerge from a welding machine, similar to those of a lightning bolt, can also damage the cornea on the eyes.

Read Also: 15 Troublesome Common Eye Diseases

Who's at risk?

• School-going kids who play in sunlight.
• On-field workers, especially laborers, and factory workers.
• Scientific Researchers who are in contact with the UV machine, fluorescent lamps, and incandescent bulbs as a part of their research.
• An occupation that requires staying exposed to the sun for long hours.

What are the sunburn eyes treatments?

Treatment for sunburned eyes usually involves self-care and OTC medications. 

• Washcloth- Use a clean cloth dipped in cold water and lay it over your eyes. Rest for a few minutes and repeat until the pain in the eye reduces.
• Cold compress- use an ice cube wrapped in a clean cloth and press it over each eye, applying gentle pressure. Ice-cold temperatures temporarily numb the skin and reduce the pain and inflammation in the area. 
• Eye drops- Non-medicated eye drops such as Carboxymethylcellulose eye drops (Refresh) can help hydrate and soothe the eyes. Apply 4-5 drops in each eye twice daily until the pain subsides.
• NSAID eye drops- If pain in the eye is severe and unbearable, you may use OTC eye drops containing an analgesic such as Diclofenac eye drops (NS-AID)
• Stay in a dark room- Staying away from light and all devices and appliances that emit some form of radiation can speed up the recovery of your eyes. 

Also, Read 13 Healthy Eyesight Tips

Cautions to take avoiding Future Sunburn in the Eyes -

When you do suffer from Sunburn in your eyes,

• Skip your makeup until your eyes feel better.
• Do not swim; Keep your eyes protected from chlorinated water or seawater.
• Do not rub your eyes.
• Wear safety goggles when using a UV-emitting device.

Tips to prevent Sunburn in your eyes

• Use sunglasses every time you step out in the sun. There is no shame nor pride in doing so. Always remember that health is paramount.
• Use sunglasses that block or reflect 99-100% UVA and UVB rays. These are usually available as completely polaroid sunglasses.
• Additionally, you may use glasses that line the side of your eyes so that your eyes are completely protected from external radiation. 
• Wear a hat when you step outdoors.
• If you use lenses, replace them after the expiry date. Do not wear the same pair of lenses post the expiry date. Make use of eye care solutions to hydrate your eyes.
• Get an eye checkup at least once yearly to be prepared before any serious damage occurs. 

Also Read: Eyes inflamed? It could be Blepharitis

Conclusion - 

Sunburned eyes are common, and they may go unnoticed by most people. Pain in the eyes after a long day at work, constant tearing up of the eyes, and headaches are symptoms we all have faced at some point in our lives. The best way to keep eye pain at bay is by applying a cold slice of cucumber on your eyes before sleeping or using a wet washcloth over your eyes every day for a few minutes. This helps reduce inflammation around the eyes and soothes the eyes.

Alternatively, always remember to keep a pair of sunglasses handy. If you notice any stress in your eyes, do not ignore the sign and get medical help as early as possible. You ought to protect your eyes from all radiation and direct rays because you only get one unique pair of eyes that are way better than any known camera lens. 

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