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Protecting your eyes on cloudy days

Eye care on cloudy days is just as important as on sunny days, even though there is less UV exposure.

While it might seem that the absence of direct sunlight reduces the need for protection, UV rays can penetrate cloud cover, posing potential risks to eye health.

Here's why eye care remains essential even when the sky is overcast:

UV Exposure: Clouds only filter out a fraction of UV rays, allowing a significant portion to reach the Earth's surface. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can contribute to various eye conditions, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea). Thus, wearing sunglasses or prescription glasses with UV protection is advisable.

Glare and Reflections: Cloudy days often create diffuse light, leading to glare and reflections from surfaces like water, snow, or even buildings. This glare can cause discomfort and temporary vision impairment, making polarised sunglasses a valuable asset for reducing such effects.

Reflective sunglasses
Person running on a cloudy day

Dry Eyes: Weather changes, including cloudy days, can impact humidity levels, potentially exacerbating dry eye symptoms. Windy conditions accompanying cloudy weather can also accelerate tear evaporation, leading to discomfort and irritation. Using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help alleviate dryness and maintain eye moisture.

Blue Light Exposure: Cloud cover does not obstruct blue light emitted by digital screens and electronic devices. Prolonged exposure to blue light may cause digital eye strain, characterised by symptoms like eye fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision. Consider using blue light filtering glasses or apps to reduce the impact of screen time on your eyes.

Eye Protection During Outdoor Activities: Cloudy days often tempt individuals to forego eye protection during outdoor activities. However, participating in sports or recreational activities without appropriate eye gear increases the risk of eye injuries from debris, projectiles, or accidental impacts. Wearing protective eyewear, such as goggles or safety glasses, is essential to prevent potential harm.

Regular Eye Examinations: Cloudy days serve as a reminder to prioritise overall eye health, emphasising the importance of regular eye examinations. Eye exams can detect early signs of eye conditions, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. Schedule routine appointments with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to monitor your eye health and address any concerns promptly.

Maintaining eye care practices on cloudy days is vital for safeguarding vision and promoting long-term eye health.

By being aware of potential risks and taking proactive measures, individuals can minimise the impact of environmental factors and preserve optimal visual function.

Published March 2024