Have you ever experienced eye pains after being outside in the snow for too long? If so the cause may have been snow blindness, also known as Photokeratitis. Snow blindness is caused by UV rays reflecting strongly off snow, and because snow is smooth and full of polycrystals light is not able to pass through, making it the strongest reflector of light. Children are more susceptible to snow blindness because they probably spend more time outside in the snow than adults and their eyes aren’t fully developed.
The symptoms of snow blindness include:
- bloodshot eyes
- teary eyes
- gritty eyes
- painful eyes
To prevent and treat snow blindness in your kids:
- Make them wear sunglasses with UV protection whenever they leave the house, especially in snowy conditions
- Avoid having them outside in snowy conditions for hours on end
- If your child expresses light discomfort in their eyes apply artificial tear drops and place a cold towel over their eyes. If their discomfort is severe visit the closest hospital for treatment.
Because kids are at a higher risk of developing eye damage from snow blindness it’s important that they wear eye with 100% UV protection whenever they outside. Need to purchase new sunglasses for your child, order from Real Kids Shades today!
Image from New America Foundation