fotokeratiittia

Fotokeratiitti, also known as actinic keratitis or nival blindness, is a temporary eye condition caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is essentially a sunburn of the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye. The condition often develops after activities such as skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, or prolonged exposure to intense sunlight without adequate eye protection. Artificial sources of UV light, like tanning beds or industrial welding arcs, can also cause fotokeratiitti.

Symptoms typically appear several hours after UV exposure and can include intense eye pain, a gritty or sandy sensation, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and a feeling of having something in the eye. In severe cases, temporary vision loss can occur. The damage is to the superficial cells of the cornea, which are shed and then regenerate.

Diagnosis is usually based on the patient's history of UV exposure and a physical examination of the eyes. A slit lamp examination may reveal characteristic signs of corneal damage. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and promoting healing. This often involves lubricating eye drops, cool compresses, pain medication, and avoiding further UV exposure. In some cases, antibiotic ointments may be prescribed to prevent infection. Most cases of fotokeratiitti resolve completely within 24 to 48 hours without any long-term vision problems. Prevention is key and involves wearing UV-blocking sunglasses or goggles when exposed to bright sunlight or UV sources.