valoärsytysvammat

Valoärsytysvammat, also known as photokeratitis or snow blindness, are painful eye conditions caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This damage occurs to the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye, and the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. The primary cause is reflected UV light, particularly from snow, ice, sand, and water, though direct sunlight is also a factor.

Symptoms typically appear several hours after exposure and can include redness, a feeling of grittiness or sand in the eyes, intense pain, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light (photophobia), blurred vision, and a sensation of a foreign body in the eye. In severe cases, temporary loss of vision can occur. The damage is temporary, and the cornea usually heals within 24 to 72 hours without permanent vision loss.

Prevention is key to avoiding valoärsytysvammat. Wearing sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection is crucial when in environments with high UV reflection. For activities like skiing or mountaineering, wrap-around style goggles that cover more of the eye area are recommended. Sunscreen applied around the eyes can also offer some protection.

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and allowing the cornea to heal. This may involve cold compresses, artificial tears to lubricate the eyes, and pain relievers. In some cases, eye drops containing anesthetic agents may be prescribed for short-term pain relief, though these should be used cautiously as they can hinder healing. Avoiding further UV exposure is essential during the healing process.