The Dangerous Connection Between Sun Exposure and AMD
Submitted by Elman Retina Group on June 20, 2019
Much has been written about the dangerous consequences prolonged sun exposure has on the skin. However, many people are unaware of how the sun damages the eyes. In fact, according to a report from the Vision Council, nearly seven in 10 Americans surveyed were unaware of the link.
In addition to increasing the risk of eye cancers, sunburn of the eyes, growths on the eyes and cataracts, overexposure to the sun can also put you at risk for retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (“AMD”). Drs. Michael J. Elman and Sidney A. Schechet, trusted retina specialists serving patients in Baltimore and the surrounding area, explain more in this blog post.
The ABCs of Ultraviolet Radiation
Ultraviolet radiation is made of invisible high-energy rays, 99 percent of which can be absorbed by the interior structures of the eye, including the light-sensitive retina (located in the back of the eye). The sun emits three forms of UV rays. UV-C rays are the most dangerous but fortunately they get absorbed by the earth’s ozone layer so they do not reach the earth’s surface. UV-A rays are linked to aging of the skin and skin cancer, while UV-B rays cause sunburn. Research shows that UV-B rays are more dangerous, presumably because they are higher energy. While the majority of UV-B rays are absorbed by the cornea and lens of the eye, the retina can be damaged the longer the eyes are exposed to the sun. UV-A rays are also harmful to the retina as they penetrate much deeper into the eye.
About AMD
Some studies have found that UV-A rays are more closely linked to the development of macular degeneration, a condition characterized by the gradual deterioration of the macula. The macula is the small central area of the retina responsible for visual acuity. Age-related macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults and occurs gradually.
While there is no cure for AMD, treatment options are available and there are several ways you can minimize your risk of developing the disease. Protecting your eyes from the sun is critical to prevent retinal damage caused by UV rays. We recommend wearing 100 percent UV blocking sunglasses when outdoors. This includes during cloudy weather.
Contact Elman Retina Group
To discuss your visual needs with of our Baltimore retina specialists, please schedule an appointment by contacting the Elman Retina Group today.
