Your retina plays a vital role in vision by converting light into signals that your brain uses to create images. Blunt eye trauma and long-term UV exposure can affect retinal health and contribute to vision changes over time. Injuries from sports, accidents, or unexpected impacts may cause internal damage even when the eye appears normal. Protecting your eyes and scheduling comprehensive eye evaluations after trauma can help identify potential concerns.
Protecting Your Retina After Injury and UV Exposure
At DLV Vision, patients often ask whether a past eye injury or years of sun exposure could affect their vision today. Our clinical team evaluates patients throughout Ventura County and Los Angeles County who experience vision changes or want to better understand their eye health.
A direct impact to the eye can affect structures inside the eye, including the retina, the light-sensitive tissue responsible for sending visual information to the brain. Blunt trauma from sports injuries, falls, or accidents can lead to retinal concerns that require evaluation by an eye care professional.
Warning signs after an eye injury include:
Flashes of light - New or increasing floaters
- Blurry vision
- A shadow or curtain-like area in your vision
- Sudden changes in eyesight
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms could indicate a retinal problem, Dr. Lynn Huang explains the warning signs to watch for and when it’s important to seek an evaluation. Watch the video to learn more.
These symptoms require prompt attention because retinal conditions are easier to evaluate when detected early.
Long-term UV exposure can also affect eye health. Spending time outdoors without proper UV protection increases exposure to harmful rays. Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays and scheduling regular comprehensive eye exams are important steps for maintaining healthy vision.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends protecting your eyes from UV exposure with proper eyewear and maintaining regular eye care visits.
When Should You Schedule an Eye Evaluation?
If you experience an eye injury, sudden vision changes, flashes, or new floaters, a comprehensive eye exam can help evaluate the health of your retina and other eye structures.
At DLV Vision, our experienced ophthalmology team provides comprehensive eye care for patients throughout Ventura County and Los Angeles County, including communities such as Ventura, Westlake Village, Camarillo, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, and Newbury Park.
Whether you are concerned about a previous injury or changes in your vision, our team can help determine the appropriate next steps. Schedule an appointment online or call us at (805) 987-5300.
