Sun safety lesson: Protect your eyes from UV damage
Laura Clare, an Australian who spent many hours in the sun during her childhood, noticed disturbing changes in her eyes at age 26. Initially, she thought she had a grain of sand in her eye. The truth turned out to be much worse.
Laura first experienced symptoms while working on the computer. Her eyes were red, and she felt like she had some kind of inflammation. Even though the problem had subsided before she visited the doctor, she decided to find out what was causing the problem.
Laura admits that in her youth, she neglected sun protection. She often tanned without a hat or sunglasses, and caring for her health wasn't a priority.
That's how she developed pterygium, an overgrowth of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent membrane covering the eye's surface. This condition affects over 270,000 Australians, especially those who spend much time in the sun, such as surfers or outdoor workers. The risk also increases in dusty or sandy conditions.
She had to undergo surgery
Ultimately, it became clear that Laura couldn't avoid surgery. The cost of removing the growths from both eyes was $7,000, which she paid out of her own pocket. The surgery also involved three months of steroid drop therapy and strict adherence to postoperative instructions.
It was so scary because your eyes are your buffer through life. To think that someone is going to come at them with a scalpel is uncomfortable, admitted Clare.
The recovery process took several weeks. Laura couldn't drive and needed help from loved ones for daily drop applications and bandage changes.
Now Laura knows that UV radiation cannot be underestimated.
It is so important for people to consider their eyes. 'Everyone should wear proper sunglasses with UV protection under Australian standards, she concluded.
