Quick Answer
Snow blindness affects vision by causing temporary blindness or blurred vision due to the intense glare from snow and ice, leading to photokeratitis, a painful condition that can last from a few hours to several days.
Symptoms and Duration
Snow blindness can take anywhere from 6 to 24 hours to manifest, and the symptoms can last for 24 to 48 hours. The condition is often accompanied by eye pain, sensitivity to light, redness, and tearing. In severe cases, the condition can cause permanent damage to the cornea, leading to vision loss.
Causes and Prevention
Snow blindness is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to snow glare, often while skiing, snowboarding, or traversing snowy terrain without proper eye protection. To prevent snow blindness, wear goggles or sunglasses with UV protection that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, take regular breaks to look away from the snow and adjust your gaze to focus on a point in the distance to reduce eye strain. It’s also essential to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support eye health. When experiencing snow blindness, seek medical attention immediately if symptoms worsen or persist.
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