Sunlight, heat, and ultraviolet (UV) rays are all types of radiation, or energy, released by the sun. Unfortunately, while UV rays are invisible, they can still damage your eyes and negatively impact your vision. Learn more about how UV rays affect your eyes and what steps you can take to protect your sight.*

Types of UV rays

There are two types of UV rays, and they affect different parts of your eyes. 

• UV-A. UV-A rays can damage the macula, a small oval-shaped area in the center of the retina, which sits in the back of the eye. Macula damage can harm your central vision. 
• UV-B. UV-B rays can damage the cornea and lens at the front of your eyes. 

UV rays can come not only directly from the sun, but also reflect off sand, snow, water, and other bright surfaces such as metal and glass. You can protect your eyes by being aware of the dangers of UV rays and by wearing proper protection.

Who is most at risk for eye damage from UV rays?

While everyone should take precautions when out in the sun, certain people are at higher risk for vision eye damage and vision loss from UV rays. These include:

• People who work or play in the sun for hours at a time
• Take medications that increase your eyes’ light sensitivity, such as:
  • Birth control pills 
  • Diuretics
  • Sulfa drugs (Azulfidine, Gantrisin, Zonegran, etc.)
  • Tetracycline
  • Tranquilizers
• Have a retina disorder or have had cataract surgery

Someone who does not have glaucoma, for example, can be placed at higher risk for developing it through prolonged exposure to the sun.

How to protect your eyes from UV rays

Whether working or playing outdoors, experts recommend wearing a wide-brimmed cap or hat, and using sunglasses or other eyewear that:

• Absorbs UV rays
• Protects your eyes from glare
• Protects your eyes from drying wind and flying debris

According to nonprofit education and advocacy group Prevent Blindness, all forms of eyewear, both prescription and non-prescription should absorb A and B UV rays. Options for achieving this include:

• UV-blocking lens coatings
• UV-blocking lens materials
• Photochromic lenses

UV protections should not impede clear vision. Speak with your eye doctor to ensure that your eyewear provides maximum protection.

*Prevent Blindness. (N.D.) Your Sight: Protect Your Eyes from the Sun. https://preventblindness.org/protect-your-eyes-from-the-sun/#1586548222940-340d332d-2749