PHOTO KERATITIS – THE SUNBURN OF THE EYE

What is Photo keratitis? Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Photokeratitis is a painful eye condition that many people have never heard of but it can affect anyone who spends time in the sun without proper eye protection. Often described as a “sunburn of the eyes,” photo keratitis is caused by intense exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, either from natural sunlight or artificial sources like welding torches or tanning beds.

The front part of your eye, particularly the cornea and conjunctiva, becomes inflamed after exposure to excessive UV radiation. Unlike sunburn on your skin, the effects on your eyes can come on rapidly, often within hours.

Common Causes of Photo keratitis

Photo keratitis, often referred to as “sunburn of the eye,” is a painful condition caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. While many people are aware of the dangers of UV exposure to the skin, they may overlook the risks posed to the eyes. Here are some of the most common sources of UV radiation that can cause photo keratitis:

• Sunlight Reflected off Snow, Water, or Sand

Natural environments can significantly increase UV exposure through reflection. Snow, for instance, can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays. This makes activities like skiing, snowboarding, or hiking in snowy areas especially risky without proper eye protection. Similarly, water and white sandy beaches also reflect a considerable amount of sunlight, intensifying UV exposure. Prolonged time spent near these reflective surfaces without wearing sunglasses can lead to a painful condition known as snow blindness, a form of photo keratitis characterized by burning, tearing, and temporary vision loss.

• Artificial UV Sources (e.g., Welding)

Industrial settings, especially welding, are another major source of artificial UV exposure. The bright arc created during welding emits high-intensity UV radiation. Without appropriate shielding, welders can develop a condition known as welder’s flash or arc eye, a specific form of photo keratitis. Symptoms can begin shortly after exposure and include a gritty sensation in the eyes, tearing, and extreme light sensitivity. It’s crucial for workers to wear certified protective eye wear whenever engaging in or near welding activities.

• Tanning Beds

Many people turn to tanning beds for cosmetic reasons, often unaware of the risks to their eyes. These devices emit both UVA and UVB rays, which can easily damage unprotected eyes. Even a brief session without protective goggles can lead to photo keratitis. The artificial UV exposure in tanning beds is concentrated and more intense than natural sunlight, making eye protection non-negotiable. Repeated exposure may not only cause temporary pain and irritation but also increase the long-term risk of eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.

• Solar Eclipses without Protection

Watching a solar eclipse is a fascinating experience, but doing so without proper eye protection is extremely dangerous. The intense solar radiation during an eclipse, especially when the sun is partially obscured, can lead to acute photo keratitis and even permanent eye damage, including solar retinopathy. Ordinary sunglasses are not safe for viewing an eclipse. Only ISO-certified eclipse glasses or properly filtered optical devices should be used to observe this rare event safely.

Common Symptoms of Photo keratitis

• Red, irritated eyes
• Foreign body sensation
• Light sensitivity
• Watery eyes
• Blurry vision
• Swollen eyelids
• Eye pain or headache
• Temporary vision loss

Who is at Risk of Photo Keratitis?

• Outdoor workers and athletes
• Skiers and beach goers
• Welders
• Tanning bed users
• Residents of high-altitude areas

Stay tuned to learn more on how to go about the treatment and prevention of photo keratitis on our next post

For all eye related concerns, visit TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako Abuja.

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