In the mountains as at the beach, in summer and in winter, our eyes are put to the test. But if we all got into the habit of protecting our skin with sunscreen, we too often forget that our eyes too can “burn” under the effect of UV rays. This is called photokeratitis. An attack of the cornea that ophthalmologists compare to a real ocular sunburn.
An invisible but very real burn
“Photkeratitis is an acute inflammation of the cornea caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays” Addresses for us Dr. Renaud Laballe, ophthalmologist. It is actually a burn of the surface of the eye, often linked to an intense reverberation of the sun on reflective surfaces such as snow or water. “”It is therefore frequently encountered in skiers in the high mountains, where altitude naturally reduces atmospheric protection against UV, but also in water sports enthusiasts or bathers exposed to light reflected by sea or sand. “
But beware, natural radiation is not the only matter in question. Some artificial sources of UV rays, such as lamps used in tanning cabins or welding stations used in a professional environment, can also cause photokeratitis. In any case, the burn can occur after relatively short exposure. And the first signs only appear after several hours. Which makes the link of cause and effect sometimes difficult to establish immediately.
Sudden symptoms, often impressive
The symptoms of the photokeratitis generally appear in the six to twelve hours depending on exposure to UVs. They most often concern both eyes, and can be particularly painful. They appear like this:
- First of all eye pain“which can be light to severe, it depends on the cases, but in any case pain always present “;
- Redness in both eyes;
- A feeling of sand grain and tears. “There is really an excessive tearing due to this feeling of sand or foreign body in the eye “;
- Strong sensitivity to light,, “What is called a photophobia” ;
- A spasm of the eyelids, “the patient being so embarrassed by light that generally he has a lot of trouble opening his eyes“;
- Sometimes a blurred vision when the keratitis really is severe.
“Faced with these symptoms, the reflex is often to rub your eyes, which is to be avoided absolutely because it can worsen the lesions of the cornea. It is better to recognize signs quickly and adopt the right gestures.”
Simple treatment, but which requires common sense
Fortunately, photokeratitis is in the vast majority of cases a benign condition. If it is well taken care of, it generally heals in 24 to 48 hours. The key to treatment is based first on visual rest. “This means to avoid screens, do not drive, and above all stay away from light in a dark room”. Some people can even wear sunglasses inside to alleviate discomfort.
“The application of cold compresses on closed eyelids relieves pain” Add the doctor. Be careful however: it is not a question of placing ice cubes directly on the eyes, but of using sterile compresses impregnated with cold water. This simple gesture has an immediate calming effect. “You can also use artificial tears, available in pharmacies without a prescription. It is better to choose conservative eye drops, because the already weakened cornea can react to these additives.”
On the other hand, certain products are to be proscribed formally without medical advice. “ Corticosteroid eye drops, or decongestant or homemade eye drops should never be used because they can worsen the burn or cause an infection“. The eye burned by UVs has tiny lesions that open the door to bacteria: any non -sterile or unsuitable product can transform benign irritation into a serious infection.
Possible complications in the event of negligence
Although the photokeratitis spontaneously heals in most cases, complications may appear if it is poorly treated or if exposure to UV is frequent. “Repeated keratitis can evolve towards chronic inflammation of the cornea, and in the long term, lead to partial opacification of it” announces the specialist. In addition, chronic and unprotected exposure to UV rays significantly increases the risk of developing early cataracts, even certain forms of age -related macular degeneration (DMLA).
Infectious risk is also to be taken seriously. “If the burned cornea is poorly treated or contaminated, corneal ulcers can form, exposing the eye to severe infections requiring heavy treatments and sometimes being able to alter the vision irreversibly.”
Can we confuse a photokeratitis with another pathology?
In some cases, photokeratitis can be confused with other eye conditions. A foreign body in the eye can cause similar symptoms, but it is often a unilateral trauma. Viral or bacterial conjunctivitis can also be mentioned, as they cause redness and tearing, but they are accompanied by secretions, glued eyelids and are generally contagious. As for herpetic keratitis, in principle it affects a single eye and has distinct clinical signs.
In the case of photokeratitis, it is above all the context that makes the difference. Recent exposure to UV, natural or artificial, quickly directs the diagnosis for a healthcare professional.
Prevention: an essential reflex for the whole family
To avoid photokeratitis, prevention is essential. It starts with effective eye protection.
In children, It is imperative to make them wear certified sunglasses, with 100 % UV protection and CE marking. These are not simple fancy glasses: only a real UV filtration effectively protects the growing eyes. A wide -edged hat or a cap is also recommended. Especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., a period when solar radiation is the most intense.
Athletes And outdoor activity lovers must also be seriously equipped. Glacier glasses or enveloping sports glasses are designed to completely block UV and protect the eyes from the wind, reverberation and dust. Ideally, these glasses are also polarized to limit glare. It is also advisable to have a second pair available, especially in the mountains. In this context, forgetting or breakage can quickly compromise eye security.