Common Warning Signs Of Photokeratitis

Also known as arc eye and snow blindness, photokeratitis occurs when the cornea is temporarily damaged after exposure to ultraviolet light. The condition typically develops when the eyes are exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun, and it can happen if an individual stares at a solar eclipse without protective eyewear. If the patient does not wear sunglasses while outdoors, even just the reflection of the sun's rays on snow, sand, or water may be enough to trigger this condition. Photokeratitis can also develop in cases where tanning beds, ultraviolet lamps, and tanning beds are used. Patients normally begin to experience symptoms around six to twelve hours after exposure. Eye doctors can diagnose photokeratitis by placing drops of fluorescein dye into the patient's eyes; this dye reveals ultraviolet damage. While most cases of photokeratitis resolve on their own within two days, patients may need to use artificial tears, antibiotics, and pain relievers to manage symptoms as they heal.