Acute photokeratitis

Acute photokeratitis, also known as "sunburn of the eye," occurs when the cornea—the clear surface of your eye—is temporarily damaged by intense ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. This often happens from direct sunlight reflected onto the eyes or UV from welding, tanning beds, or sunlamps. Symptoms include pain, redness, blurred vision, tearing, and a sensation of having grit or a foreign object in the eye. The condition is usually temporary, improving with rest and avoidance of further UV exposure. Protecting your eyes with proper eyewear can prevent this painful but reversible condition.