In this article, we explore the relationship between sunlight and myopia. If you want to know more about the myopia eye condition, read on

We are commonly told to avoid sunlight, as too much can be harmful, but is this advice overblown? Could sunlight benefit our eyes and reduce the risk of myopia? Let’s investigate!

What is Myopia?

Myopia, more commonly known as short-sightedness, affects up to 20 million people in the UK alone and can range from mild to severely debilitating. It is caused when the eye grows too long, meaning that light focuses in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in blurred vision for distant objects, making it difficult to see things clearly at a distance.

The severity of myopia is measured on a sliding scale based on the level of vision correction needed:

– Mild myopia: -0.25 to -3.00 diopters

– Moderate myopia: -3.25 to -6.00 diopters

– High myopia: -6.00 diopters and above

Depending on the degree of vision impairment, myopia can be a minor inconvenience or a major problem affecting daily life. In severe cases, it can significantly harm a person’s quality of life by limiting their ability to perform tasks that require clear distance vision, such as driving, watching television, or recognizing faces from afar. High myopia also carries an increased risk of developing other serious eye conditions, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts, further underscoring the importance of proper management and treatment.

Could Natural Light Exposure Play a Major Role in Preventing Myopia?

Over the last twenty years, numerous research studies have investigated whether sunlight exposure reduces the risk of myopia. A growing body of evidence suggests a positive link, indicating that sunlight and UV rays may help lower the chances of developing short-sightedness in children. The largest analysis to date, conducted by scientists from the University of Cambridge, assessed 23 studies. They found that for each additional hour spent outdoors per week, the risk of myopia was reduced by an average of 2%.

A popular theory behind this correlation is that the sun’s ultraviolet light triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter known to inhibit ocular growth. This dopamine release may result in more normal eye growth, reducing the likelihood of myopia. Conversely, children who spend more time indoors do not produce the same dopamine levels, potentially leading to abnormal eye growth and myopia development. However, it is important to note that the dopamine connection is not universally accepted, and further research is needed to understand the mechanisms involved fully.

Despite the ongoing debate over the exact role of dopamine, the evidence supporting the benefits of outdoor activity for eye health is compelling. Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors could be a simple and effective strategy to reduce the risk of myopia, alongside other preventive measures such as regular eye check-ups and appropriate vision correction.

Vitamin D and Myopia

Separate research suggests that Vitamin D plays an important role. A study involving 946 people in Australia found that Vitamin D deficiency increased the chances of developing short-sightedness. Similar conclusions were reached in a Korean study involving 2038 adolescents, which also linked low serum Vitamin D levels with high levels of myopia. The most Vitamin D deficient children had the most severe eye issues.

Will Vitamin D Supplementation Help Reduce Risk?

Due to conflicting viewpoints, it is not possible to recommend Vitamin D supplementation to prevent myopia. Indeed, another recent study found no link between the two. Although it is generally accepted that sunlight is beneficial for eye health, Vitamin D supplements are not an alternative solution. Spending more time outdoors is the cheapest and most effective action to take.

However, it’s important to note that quality standards for Vitamin D supplements vary while being outdoors, which is a reliable way to get a sufficient dose. Too much exposure to the sun is also risky, so balance is key.

Can Sunlight Reverse Myopia?

There is a general misconception that sunlight can reverse myopia, which is not true. Research shows that sunlight definitely helps reduce the risk of myopia, but once developed, it cannot be reversed, and proper treatment is required.

Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer

While sunlight can be beneficial, excessive exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. Research shows that fifteen minutes of sun exposure per day is enough to normalize Vitamin D levels and let the body absorb UVB rays without them being harmful. If more time is spent outdoors, always wear sun protection in your most exposed areas.

Some of the Best Ways to Get Just Enough Sun Exposure:

– Go for a walk.

– Exercise outdoors.

– Do some gardening.

Going without sunglasses is not needed when trying to boost your Vitamin D levels. Skin absorbs the sun’s rays without any need to expose your eyes directly. However, sunglasses play an important role in protecting your eyes, particularly on hot summer days.

If You Have Myopia – What Are Your Treatment Options?

If you have myopia or short-sightedness, there are several treatment options available, ranging from temporary to permanent solutions. Temporary solutions include wearing glasses or contact lenses, which correct the refractive error by focusing light correctly onto the retina. Glasses are easy to use and maintain but can be inconvenient for active lifestyles.

Contact lenses offer a more natural field of vision. They are suitable for sports and other activities. Still, they require a high level of cleanliness and maintenance, especially lenses that are not daily disposables, given they need to be handled with care and maintained to avoid eye infections and other complications.

Permanent treatment options for myopia include Permanent treatment options for myopia include Laser Eye Surgery (LASIK and LASEK/PTK). Laser Eye Surgery, such as LASIK, reshapes the cornea using a laser to correct the refractive error, providing a permanent solution that eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses. The procedure is quick, with a high success rate and minimal recovery time. On the other hand, Implantable Contact Lenses (ICLs) involve surgically inserting a lens inside the eye to correct vision. ICLs are an excellent option for individuals who may not be suitable candidates for LASIK, such as those with very high prescriptions or thin corneas.

At our clinic on Harley Street, we offer both Laser and ICL treatments, providing personalized care to achieve excellent results. They are more cost-effective in the long term compared to the ongoing expenses of glasses and contact lenses. Additionally, they offer the convenience of improved vision without the daily hassle of corrective eyewear maintenance.

Interested in Vision Correction?

If you would like to find out more about any of the vision correction treatments offered at Precision Vision London and what they can do for your eyesight, why not call us today at 020 3884 6805 and book your consultation to find out how we can help you.