2017 HCHB_digital

Sun Care: Eye Protection
Protecting eyes against the sun is just as important as protecting skin. While most
people are aware of the link between ultraviolet (UV) radiation and skin cancer
(see also Sun Care), few realise the connection between UV radiation (UVR)
exposure and eye damage.
Particles in the atmosphere scatter UVR so even staying out of direct sunlight
does not eliminate this hazard. UV damage to the surface tissues and internal
structures of the eye (such as the cornea and lens) can occur from either natural
sunlight or artificial UV rays.
In the short term, excessive exposure to UV radiation from daily activities can burn
the surface of the eye, similar to a sunburn on the skin. Exposure is exacerbated by
reflections off snow, concrete, water, or other shiny or white surfaces.
Acute effects
Acute effects of UV radiation on the eye include inflammation of the cornea and
the iris, photoconjunctivitis (an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane
that lines the inside of the eyelids), and photokeratitis (snow blindness: a
temporary but painful burn to the cornea).
Long term risks
Long-term exposure to UV radiation can lead to, or increase the risk of:
• age-related macular degeneration: a deterioration in macular tissue that
causes loss of central vision
• cataracts: a clouding of the eye’s lens that can blur vision
• pterygiums: a white or creamy opaque growth attached to the cornea (white
of the eye). These are usually non-cancerous, but may grow over the cornea,
partially blocking vision, and may require surgery to be removed
• skin cancer around the eyelids: basal cell carcinoma is the most common.
In order to reduce the risk of eye damage, sunglasses should always be worn
outside, particularly when it's sunny, at the beach or near water, when driving or
outside at high elevations or participating in snow sports. Anybody with an eye
disease, who has had cataract surgery, or is taking photosensitising medicines
should always wear sunglasses outside.
Choosing sunglasses
While more expensive sunglasses may use slightly dearer materials for both the
frame and the lens, sunglass cost has more to do with the brand name than a
reflection of UVR protection. Pharmacies should choose to only stock sunglasses
that comply with the Australian/NZ standard (AS/NZS)1067:2003, or another
internationally recognised standard. Note that this standard is only voluntary in
New Zealand, although it is mandatory in Australia.
Initial assessment
Help customers select sunglasses that best suit the main activity for which they
will be worn. For example, polarised sunglasses are best for fishing and driving;
nylon blended frames are resistant to hot and cold, and easily moulded into
wrap-around styles so are ideal for high-intensity sports; and purple or rose tints
offer the best contrast of objects against a green or blue background so are
perfect for hunting or water-skiing. Importantly, the customer likes and feels
comfortable in the sunglasses, which makes them more likely to be worn.
People who wear corrective lenses may consider having a UV protective coating
added to their prescription lenses, investing in a pair of prescription sunglasses or
buying protective shades that can be worn over their vision-correcting glasses.
About the Australian/NZ standards (AS/NZS)
The AS/NZS: 1067:2003 sets limits on the allowed transmittances of fashion
spectacles and sunglasses for adults and children. Sunglasses that are allowed to
be worn while driving must comply with the colouration limits of AS/NZS 1067.
Colours, in particular traffic signals, must still be recognisable when viewed
through the lenses. The standard defines five categories of lenses – see below.
LENS
DESCRIPTION
CATEGORY
0 Fashion spectacles with very low sunglare
reduction. Some UVR protection
1 Fashion spectacles – not sunglasses. Limited
sunglare reduction. Some UVR protection
2 Sunglasses – medium sunglare reduction
and good UV protection
3 Sunglasses – high sunglare reduction and
good UV protection
4 Special purpose sunglasses – very high
sunglare reduction. Good UV protection
ADDITIONAL
ENDORSEMENTS
None
Not suitable for
driving at night
None
None
Must not be used
when driving
Several other markings may be found on sunglasses including the Eye
Protection Factor (EPF) rating. This takes into account the frame coverage, UV
protection, blue light and infrared protection (ability to shield the eyes from
heat). Sunglasses labelled EPF 10 actually exceed the requirements of AS/NZS
1067:2003. Sunglasses may also be labelled “Absorbs 100% UVR”. According
to the New Zealand Association of Optometrists, the claim "UV400" is little more
than a marketing spin as there is no accepted definition.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Category Examples Comments
Sunglasses eg, Bill Bass, North Beach, Zoya sunglasses Sunglass suppliers offer a wide range of popular branded sunglasses of varying specifications.
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Page 146 HEALTHCARE HANDBOOK 2017-2018 Common Disorders