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Medical Mythbuster: Can Your Eyes Get Sunburned?

By Dr. Joseph Silva, OD
Department of Eye Services 

The answer is YES, your eyes can become sunburnt. The eyes are very sensitive and when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays for too long can become red, sore, itchy and often painful – a condition known as photokeratitis which lasts a few hours to a couple of days. That’s why it’s important to protect your eyes when you are at the beach, skiing in the winter, or anywhere you will encounter high intensity UV rays for an extended period.

UV-blocking sunglasses and a hat with a brim are the best way to protect your eyes from the dangers of the sun.

Medical Mythbuster: Can Your Eyes Get Sunburned?

About Joseph Silva, OD

Dr. Joseph Silva decided to become an optometrist because he enjoys the challenge of determining what a patient’s problem is and then making a proper diagnosis. “I really enjoy working with patients and helping them whether it’s a vision problem that can be easily fixed with contact lenses or something more serious that requires working with an ophthalmologist,” he explains.

Dr. Silva has long been involved in helping people...

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