Sun to the snow, the eyes focus on the ski slopes

At altitude, with the reverberation of the snow, the cornea is more than ever exposed to harmful UV rays. Yet while wearing sunglasses in summer is a reflex, we forget too often to protect his eyes on the slopes.

The cornea may be damaged in minutes

Radiation solar is extremely important to the mountain. The snow reflects about 85% of UV rays, against only 20% for sand and 5-10% for water. Besides the proportion of ultra-violet increases 10% per thousand feet.

Accordingly: in the absence of adequate sun protection, the epithelium, the protective layer of the cornea is altered very quickly.
A few minutes in the sun may be enough.

Symptoms similar to conjunctivitis

The first signs of inflammation, experts speak of snow blindness , manifest themselves most often as 4 to 6 hours after exposure.

We do not think so always make the connection between an overdose of UV and this awkward feeling of having a grain of sand caught under the eyelid, this redness, tearing it.
Of signs similar to those of conjunctivitis that can be accompanied by pain of variable intensity, proportional to the degree of the burn, the cornea is richly innervated.

Rest in the dark for 48h

If all of these symptoms usually disappear after 48 hours without a sequel, this superficial burn of the ocular surface did not force his victims less to stay in the black during this time.

The darkness is indeed the best medicine to let the cornea heal well.

To promote healing, you can also ask your pharmacist local treatment with vitamin B Available as a gel or eye drops, these products are available without prescription.
However, we recommend you consult a doctor if you have any doubt, especially if the pain persists beyond 24 hours.

Caution : If you normally wear contact lenses , you should also refrain from wearing them for 4 to 5 days.
This is the time necessary for proper healing of the cornea.

Please visit our cards on the ski .

How to choose your glasses:

- Choose a model classified category IV, the glasses will filter between 92% and 97% brightness. But remember that the index filtration S4 is prohibited driving;
- Prefer Opaque shapes that rise up to the eyebrows and cover the entire width of the face. Make sure they have good guard;
- Choose polarized lenses known to suppress the reverberation and thus the glare;
- Know that the brown lenses provide a more comfortable view, even if they do not render colors as well as gray lenses. The yellow glasses are all listed them in fog or "white day" because they have the characteristic increase contrast.

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