Protecting Children's Eyes from Summer Sun: Understanding Photokeratitis

As summer vacations bring joy and outdoor play for children, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks to their eye health. Dr. Samragyi Srivastava, an ophthalmologist, highlights the dangers of photokeratitis, a condition caused by excessive UV exposure. Children, along with certain other groups, are particularly vulnerable. Symptoms include burning sensations, redness, and light sensitivity. Early diagnosis through a slit-lamp examination can lead to effective treatment, allowing for a quick recovery. This article provides crucial insights into protecting children's eyes during the sunny months.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2026, 18:43 IST

The Risks of Summer Sun Exposure for Kids

Summer break is synonymous with joy and outdoor activities for kids, but could this enjoyment under the blazing sun be detrimental to their eyesight?

Dr. Samragyi Srivastava, an ophthalmologist at Dr. Agarwal's Eye Hospital, cautions that prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can result in a condition known as 'photokeratitis.' Let's delve deeper into this issue.

Who is Most Vulnerable?

Photokeratitis mainly impacts those who are subjected to high levels of UV radiation. Dr. Srivastava notes that children who spend extended periods playing outdoors during summer vacations are at a notably increased risk.

In addition to children, the following groups are also at risk:

Welders.
Skiers in snowy areas.
Individuals who spend long hours at the beach.
Workers who are exposed to strong sunlight for prolonged durations.

Identifying the Symptoms

Symptoms of photokeratitis may include:

A stinging or burning sensation along with severe eye pain.
Redness and excessive tearing.
Increased sensitivity to light.
A feeling of having grit or a foreign object in the eye.

Fortunately, in most instances, vision remains intact or only slightly affected.

How is Photokeratitis Diagnosed?

To accurately diagnose this condition, ophthalmologists perform a slit-lamp examination.

This device allows the doctor to inspect the outer layer of the cornea, where signs of inflammation, redness, or cellular damage can be easily identified. During this process, a special anesthetic eye drop is applied, providing immediate relief from pain and discomfort. The rapid alleviation of pain serves as a reliable clinical sign for diagnosing this condition. It is important to note that this anesthetic is only used for diagnostic purposes and should not be employed as a standard treatment.

Effective Treatment for Quick Recovery

Dr. Samragyi Srivastava emphasizes that treating photokeratitis is both simple and effective. If detected early and treated appropriately, patients can expect a full recovery within 24 to 72 hours. Therefore, if any symptoms arise in children, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly.

Stay Informed and Protect Your Eyes

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