The toxic effects of ultra violet radiation, or UVR, can injure the ocular tissues of the eye, including the cornea, lens and macula lutea, which is a minute yellowish area located near the center of the retina that constitutes the region of maximum visual acuity. The UVR can come from the sun or other reflective surfaces of the Earth, such as the ocean, snow or sand, or an artificial source. The tissues located at the anterior of the eye absorb most of the UVR.
Arc Eye
Arc eye is a painful ocular condition commonly experience by welders who do not use an appropriate welding helmet or goggles. The intense ultraviolet radiation emitted by the arc causes injury to the outermost protective layer of cells in the cornea. The damaged cells die and gradually fall out of the cornea. The amount of damage depends on the strength of the radiation, arc length, angle of beam entry and type of eyewear the welder or bystander is using.
Cataracts
In some people, the long-term exposure of UV radiation increases the risk of developing cataracts, the progressive opacity of an eye lens, which blocks the passage of light to the retina. A cataract develops slowly and has a direct effect on your vision. According to MedlinePlus, more than half of the U.S. population aged 80 and older either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery.
Uvea Melanoma
Uvea melanoma, the most common ocular cancer in adults, is directly associated with solar light, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Uveal melanomas usually arise from the anterior uveal tract, which is the pigmented middle layer of the eye consisting of the iris and ciliary body. A melanoma or cancer tumor typically appears as elevated, nodular or dome-shaped. Pigment variegation ranges from dark brown to totally amelanotic.
