Costly eye surgery highlights dangers of neglecting sun safety
Laura Clare, an Australian who spent many hours in the sun during her childhood, noticed troubling changes in her eyes at the age of 26. Initially, she thought she had a grain of sand in her eye. The truth turned out to be much worse.
Laura's first symptoms were while working on the computer. Her eyes were red, and Clare felt like she was experiencing some inflammation. Although the problem had subsided before her doctor's visit, she decided to check what was causing the problem.
Laura admits that in her youth, she neglected sun protection and often sunbathed without a hat or sunglasses. Taking care of her health did not matter much to her.
And that's how she developed pterygium, an overgrowth of the conjunctiva, a thin transparent membrane covering the eye's surface. This condition affects over 270,000 Australians, especially those who spend a lot of time in the sun, such as surfers or people working outdoors. Besides the sun, the risk increases when exposed to dusty or sandy conditions.
She had to undergo surgery
Ultimately, it became clear that Laura couldn't avoid surgery. The cost of removing changes from both eyes was $9,500 CAD, which she covered out of her own pocket. The surgery also included three months of steroid drop therapy and strict adherence to postoperative recommendations.
It was so scary because your eyes are your buffer through life. To think that someone is going to come at them with a scalpel is uncomfortable - admitted Laura.
The recovery process took several weeks. Laura couldn't drive and required help from loved ones for daily drop application and dressing changes.
Now Laura knows that UV radiation cannot be underestimated.
It is so important for people to consider their eyes. 'Everyone should wear proper sunglasses with UV protection under Australian standards' - she summarized.
