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Sunburn of the cornea, clinically known as photokeratitis, is an acute, temporary injury caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. It is essentially a "sunburn" of the cornea (the clear, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye). It commonly occurs from reflected UV light off snow (snow blindness), water, or tanning beds, damaging the surface epithelial cells of the cornea.
read more about sunburn of the cornea ...Photokeratitis is caused by the absorption of high-energy UVB rays by the corneal tissue. The most common causes are unprotected exposure to reflection from snow, which can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, or light from welding arcs (arc eye). Tanning beds are also a major cause, as they emit intense UV radiation at close range.
Symptoms usually begin several hours after exposure and include severe pain, a gritty feeling like sand in the eyes, extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia), redness, tearing, and blurred vision. The discomfort can be intense and last for 24 to 48 hours.
Treatment focuses on pain relief and allowing the cornea to heal naturally. The eye doctor will typically recommend resting in a dark room, using cold compresses, and applying lubricating eye drops. In some cases, antibiotic drops may be prescribed to prevent infection. Recovery is typically fast because the corneal epithelium regenerates quickly.
Prevention is simple and absolute: wear protective eyewear that provides 100% UV protection (UV400) whenever you are outdoors, especially in high-reflection environments like beaches, mountains, or snow. Always use the proper protective gear, such as welding helmets or certified UV safety goggles, for industrial exposure.
How long does it take for the symptoms to appear?
Symptoms are often delayed, typically appearing 3 to 12 hours after the exposure. This delay can make it difficult for people to realize the sun damage has occurred until they wake up with severe pain.
Is it safe to wear contact lenses while my cornea is healing?
No. If you have symptoms of photokeratitis, you should immediately remove your contact lenses and wear glasses. Contact lenses can trap bacteria and significantly slow the healing process, increasing the risk of infection.
Can children get sunburn of the cornea?
Yes. Since children spend significant time outdoors and their eyes have clearer lenses than adults, they are highly susceptible to photokeratitis. It is essential for children to wear UV400-rated sunglasses and hats outdoors.