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snow blindness
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snow blindness

visual condition
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Quick Summary

Snow blindness is an inflammation and sensitivity to light (photophobia) caused by the eyes' exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays reflected from snow or ice. This condition is a form of keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea.12

The Inuit people are believed to have used some of the earliest forms of goggles, made from bone or ivory with narrow slits, to protect their eyes from snow blindness. Modern goggles used in winter sports serve a similar purpose, shielding the eyes from glare, wind, cold, and potential impacts. Exposure to strong UV light, similar to what causes sunburn, can lead to this eye inflammation.32

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. snow blindness
  2. radiation - Effects on the eyes
  3. goggles

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