Sunny days are one of the benefits of living in Chino, but frequent ultraviolet exposure can affect more than your skin. Your eyes are also vulnerable to UV radiation, and years of exposure may contribute to conditions such as cataracts and pterygium. At Coastal Vision Medical Group, we encourage patients to think about UV eye protection throughout the year, not only during the hottest summer months.

How UV Exposure Affects Your Eyes

Ultraviolet radiation can reach delicate structures within and around the eye. The effects typically build gradually, meaning you may not notice changes right away.

Regular outdoor exposure without proper protection may increase the risk of:

•          Cataracts that cause cloudy or blurry vision

•          Pterygium, a growth of tissue that extends toward the cornea

•          Eye irritation, redness, and sensitivity

•          Increased glare and difficulty seeing in bright conditions

•          Long-term damage to sensitive eye tissues

UV rays can still reach your eyes on cooler or partly cloudy days, making consistent protection important for people who spend significant time outdoors in Chino.

UV Exposure and Cataracts

A cataract develops when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy. Cataracts are commonly associated with aging, but long-term UV exposure can contribute to changes in the lens over time.

As a cataract progresses, you may notice blurry vision, faded colors, halos around lights, increased glare, or difficulty driving at night. When cataracts begin interfering with everyday activities, cataract surgery may be considered. We offer cataract evaluations and advanced cataract surgery options to help determine the appropriate treatment based on your eye health and visual needs.

What Is a Pterygium?

A pterygium is a noncancerous growth of tissue that extends from the conjunctiva toward the cornea. Frequent exposure to sunlight and dusty or dry environments is commonly associated with its development.

Some pterygia remain small and cause few problems. Others can lead to redness, burning, irritation, a foreign body sensation, blurred vision, or changes in the shape of the cornea.

Depending on its size and symptoms, treatment may include UV protection, lubricating or prescription eye drops, monitoring, or surgical removal when the growth begins affecting the cornea or vision.

Protecting Your Eyes From UV Damage

One of the simplest ways to reduce cumulative UV exposure is to wear sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. A wide-brimmed hat can provide additional protection when spending extended periods outside. Routine comprehensive eye exams are also important because cataracts, pterygium, and other eye conditions may develop gradually. Detecting changes early gives us the opportunity to monitor your eye health and recommend treatment when appropriate.

If you have noticed cloudy vision, increased glare, persistent irritation, or a growth on the surface of your eye, schedule an evaluation with Coastal Vision Medical Group to learn more about treatment options. Contact our office in Chino, CA, or call (888) 501-4496 to book an appointment.