Excess light, heat can damage eyes says Ophthalmologist

Dr Ayodeji Alade, an Ophthalmologist at the General Hospital, Omuaran, Kwara, has warned people against getting exposed to excess light and heat to avoid damage to the cornea of the eyes resulting in blindness.


Alade gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Omu-Aran on Friday.

He explained that exposure to excessive light and heat could lead to the growth of pterygium, an infection of the eye caused by dust, heat, smoke, pollen and wind.

He said the disease occurred more often in people who lived in warm climates and spent a lot of time outdoors in sunny or windy environments.

The expert further explained that symptoms of pterygium include redness, blurred vision, eye irritation and burning sensation or itches.

According to Alade, other eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, trachoma and presbyopia can be as a result of lifestyle, age, sickness or dirty environment.

He advised people to maintain a high level of hygiene and wear protective gear around their eyes during high-risk jobs or harsh weather.