Gotta wear shades...and the right ones
Apr 28, 2006 20: 55 EST
Snow blindness (ultraviolet keratitis) is not an uncommon consequence of poorly prepared travel through high altitude and snowy surroundings. The onset of discomfort after exposure is usually delayed, in fact the victim is typically unaware that an eye injury is developing. In extreme cases, for instance when sunglasses are lost at high altitude and in snowy conditions, snowblindness can develop in as little as 20 minutes, but symptoms may not begin until 6 to 10 hours after UV exposure. Symptoms range from mild irritation and foreign body sensation to severe pain and light sensitivity/intolerance. Treatment may consist of an antibiotic ophthalmic ointment applied to the eye, anti-inflammatory eyedrops, analgesic medications, eye rest and sunglasses. The duration of discomfort from UV keratitis is typically 24 to 48 hours.
As with many other problems at altitude, prevention is key. But as in the case of this photographed climber who sought care in our clinic (and who WAS wearing sunglasses,) protection was incomplete. At high altitude with snow reflection, protection from above with a lidded cap and from the side with wrap-around style glasses is optimal. But if you can’t run down to the local sunglass store, you can improvise sunglasses from duct tape, cardboard, or other light-impermeable material. Cardboard glasses with narrow eye slits can also be taped over the eyes for protection. Slits can also be cut into a piece of duct tape that has been folded over on itself with the sticky sides opposing. After a triangular wedge is removed for the nose, apply another piece of tape to secure the glasses to the head. Tape or other light-blocking material can also be added to the sides of non wrap-around sunglasses to extend protection.
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