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On A High Alltitude Hike Make Sure to Keep Your Eyes Safe

November 18, 2011 on 12:00 am | In Uncategorized | Comments Off

You may know about the general health problems that can occur on a high altitude hike, but do you realize that your eyes are also at risk? You may be use to wearing sunglasses when it is sunny, however the days that are cloudy are just as hazardous for your eyes. The rays of the sun are intensified at high altitude and this can damage your eyes if the proper precautions are not taken. When there is snow or water it is even more intense.I found some more information here. The sun reflects off these surfaces and creates strong UV rays that can damage your eyes.

Damage from the sun can be in the form of tissue growth to the white of the eye, sunburned corneas, cataracts and cancerous growths near the eye. The eye does not repair itself when harmed by the sun and the effects of exposure are cumulative. Children are especially susceptible to the rays of the sun and hats and glasses should be worn by all children in high altitudes. Your eyes need to serve you many years, taking care that they are protected in the high altitude is important for protection to eyes that will serve you for a lifetime.