Photokeratitis is the sunburn of the eyes caused by the intense glare reflected off of reflective services like ice, snow and bodies of water. Although temporary, the condition comes on suddenly and is painful. By the time an individual notices the problem, the damage to the eye has occurred.
While photokeratitis is commonly known as snow blindness, it can also occur on a sunny summer day at a sandy beach. The best way to prevent it is with UV protective sunglasses or goggles.