Before Kira closes the tanning bed, she places purple goggles over her eyes. Dr. Matthew Evans, an optometrist with offices in Lafayette and Attica, sees the damage sun inflicts on eyes. The sun may cause retinal damage and premature cataracts, which Natannya is so worried about. Evans frequently treats farmers and other individuals who work outdoors for excess sun damage. He has also treated the damaged eyes of welders who are exposed to high intensity radiation.
Excessive light can cause eyelid lesions.
People who are exposed to ultraviolet radiation are more susceptible to pinguecula bumps in the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane lining the inside of the eyeball. It can also cause pterygium, which is connective tissue growth that stretches across the cornea. Both can impair vision. To prevent eye damage from high intensity light, Evans recommends wearing a wide-brim hat and sunglasses. Evans said sunglasses should provide 100 percent blockage.