Prolonged and continuous exposure to ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun, according to leading eye specialists, may result in the development of cataracts and macular degeneration.

These experts caution that individuals with even brief exposure to sunlight are at risk of experiencing sudden eye discomfort, watering, and vision disturbances.

Reports from Wakadaily indicate that ophthalmologists have highlighted that individuals in professions where they are consistently exposed to UV rays are prone to developing pterygium over time.

Pterygium, also known as Surfer’s eye, is described by the American Academy of Ophthalmology as the growth of a raised fleshy tissue that can grow to cover a portion of the cornea.

Studies conducted in Nigeria have shown a prevalence rate of pterygium ranging from nine to 12.5 percent, with a higher occurrence among commercial motorcyclists, traders, and individuals engaged in outdoor occupations.

Research and health blogs have also linked prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun to increased risks of cataracts.

According to a healthcare blog from Cleveland Clinic, UV rays are a type of energy emitted by the sun and reaching the earth’s surface. However, prolonged exposure to these rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, skin issues, and eye problems such as cataracts.

The AAO describes cataracts as a condition where the eye lens becomes cloudy, resulting in blurred and hazy vision. Cataracts can be caused by factors such as aging, genetic predisposition, diabetes, prior eye injuries or surgeries, exposure to radiation therapy or X-rays on the upper body, and prolonged sun exposure without the use of protective sunglasses.

The Ophthalmic Society adds that UV light exposure can harm the eyes, increasing the risks of cataracts, eye growths, and eye cancer.

Furthermore, a medical blog from Johns Hopkins Medicine explains that UV rays can impact all eye structures and eventually lead to impaired vision.

The Nigerian National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey indicates that cataracts are the most common cause of severe visual impairment and blindness, with prevalence rates of 45.3 percent and 43 percent, respectively.

While acknowledging that pterygium and cataracts are treatable conditions, Professor Afekhide Omoti, a specialist in Ophthalmology at the University of Benin in Edo State, emphasized that prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun can predispose the eyes to cataracts, corneal burns, and age-related macular degeneration.

He also warned that prolonged gazing at the sun may lead to solar retinopathy, causing injury or damage to the retina, resulting in vision blurriness, loss, or eye discomfort.

“While the effect of the sun in causing cataract and macular degeneration is from prolonged exposure, much shorter exposure can cause corneal burns or photokeratitis. Common symptoms of corneal burns or photokeratitis are sudden eye pain, tearing, blurred vision and photophobia following exposure to the sun. Fortunately, the eye can recover spontaneously when it is rested away from the sun. More severe cases may require padding the eye,” the don said.

According to Omoti, Chairman of the National Eye Health Committee of Nigeria, there have been instances of solar retinopathy reported in the country.

However, he pointed out that cataracts and macular degeneration are prevalent among older adults, making it challenging to determine whether sun exposure is the primary cause of these eye issues, as age-related factors also play a significant role.

Omoti added, “One thing is definite – that prolonged exposure to Ultraviolet rays from the sun is a risk factor for cataract and macula degeneration in Nigeria like elsewhere worldwide, but it is not the only contributory factor. Another complication of prolonged exposure to Ultraviolet rays from the sun is pterygium, a degeneration of the conjunctiva that grows over the cornea.”

The Ophthalmologist warned that prolonged sun exposure can lead to eye cancer and skin damage around the eyes, including eyelid skin cancer.

He advised individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors to protect themselves by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, hats, or face caps to minimize the risk of these conditions.

“First of all, they must avoid gazing at the sun. That will prevent acute complications like solar Retinopathy and photokeratitis or corneal burns. Also, the use of a wide-brimmed hat and dark sunglasses with 100 per cent ultraviolet protection is very helpful. The use of sunscreen creams may also be beneficial for the skin. These are particularly important for outdoor workers,” the Ophthalmologist stated.

Dr. Bernadette Aghahon, an Ophthalmologist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, explained that while cataracts can be caused by various factors such as birth defects, aging, trauma, and X-ray exposure, prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun can also increase the risk.

Additionally, she warned that extended sun exposure can lead to pterygium, a condition also known as “surfer’s eye.” She recommended that individuals who work outdoors use sun shades with UV protection to safeguard their eyes.

“Pterygium is a growth on the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a transparent membrane that covers the eye. It (pterygium) grows from the conjunctiva to the cornea. So, it’s a fleshy growth and it has some cosmetic implications. If it’s large, it can cause cosmetic issues and it can give patients discomfort, including a burning sensation and grittiness.

They can also have redness, tearing, and all that. Some people just come (to the clinic) and say they’ve noticed this growth in their eye, or their relatives have told them that there’s this growth in their eye. So, they want to get it checked by a doctor,” Aghahon highlighted.

Dr. Aghahon emphasized that pterygium can be addressed through both medical and surgical treatments. She stressed the importance of protecting one’s eyes when outside and recommended regular eye examinations with a specialist.

Additionally, she cautioned against self-medication and using over-the-counter drugs for eye problems, instead encouraging individuals to seek professional help from an ophthalmologist.