Asian Eye Institute cornea and external disease specialist Dr. Sharlene NogueraLIKE your skin, your eyes need sun protection, too!

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage your eyes. These UV rays are not visible to the naked eye and are categorized into three types—UVA, UVB and UVC.

Asian Eye Institute cornea and external disease specialist Dr. Sharlene Noguera says: “UVC rays are the most damaging to the eyes but, luckily, they are absorbed by the ozone layer. UVA rays pass through the cornea or the clear surface layer of the eye, which affect the lens and retina, while UVB rays affect the cornea and lead to growths on the eyes.

“Prolonged and constant sun exposure raise the risk of developing eye conditions later in life,” she adds.

Eye conditions

Some of the eye conditions you may develop include cataracts, macular degeneration, skin cancer on your eyelids or around your eyes, eye “sunburn” and pinguecula (a yellowish bump on the sclera or the white part of the eye). However, the most common of all is pterygium.

Noguera explains: “Pterygium is pink fleshy tissue that starts to grow on the sclera and slowly extends on the cornea. It can be red and very itchy. Sometimes, it feels as if there’s sand in your eyes and your eyes tear up excessively. As the pterygium grows, you may start having a hard time seeing. It can also distort the shape of your cornea, causing astigmatism.”

Astigmatism is a type of refractive error that happens when the cornea is irregularly shaped or uneven.

“Pterygium is often called pugita because of the way it grows like a squid swimming across the eye,” Noguera says. “But the good news is that it can be removed through surgery. It may also redevelop if you continue to be exposed to UV rays, but we can do conjunctival autograft to lower the rate of recurrence.”

Noguera urges patients to protect their eyes to prevent the development of sun-related eye conditions.

Higher UV levels

“This is very important, especially since the summer season is here. It’s best to consider where you’re going and what time you’re going out. Usually, the UV levels are higher in open spaces with reflective surfaces like water, sand and snow, and when the sun is high, which is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.”

Check that you use 100% UV-protected eyewear, including sunglasses, eyeglasses and even contact lenses.

“It should be able to block 100% of UV rays, so ask your eye specialist or purchase from a legitimate seller or shop. There are tests that can be done to make sure your lenses have UV protection,” advises Noguera.

If you have any eye concerns, it’s best to consult your ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam. Asian Eye continues to serve patients at its clinics in Rockwell Center, TriNoma, SM Mall of Asia and Commercenter Alabang. It also has a teleconsultation service so you can talk to your doctor from the comfort of your home. Simply call 8-898-2020 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to set an appointment.

In need of UV-protected eyeglasses, sunglasses or eye medication? Shop at www. asianeyeshop.com. You can get help from Asian Eye experts and avail of free nationwide delivery for a minimum purchase of P2,000. (Story/Photos by: Charizze Henson)