Question

How is snow blindness caused by humans?

Answer 1

The painful condition which occurred due to high exposure to UV light. UV light causes sunburn to the cornea of the eye. It is a treatable disease. Symptoms of snow blindness last a maximum of 48 hours. It needs to consult a doctor if the symptoms of snow blindness remain more than 48 hours.

Complete answer:
The colorless layer which covers the pupil, iris and the anterior chamber of the eye is called the cornea. The cornea is responsible for reflecting the light which comes from the outside. Cornea comprises unmyelinated neurons and lacks blood vessels. Oxygen and nutrients are supplied to the cornea by the diffusion through the tear.
Due to high exposure to ultraviolet rays, the outer sensitive layer of the cornea becomes damaged and irritated which leads to a condition called snow blindness. The name snow blindness comes from the light reflective property of the snow. Snow has a high capacity to reflect UV light into the corner of the eyes. Apart from ultraviolet light, snow blindness can also occur due to blow torch, tanning booths, sunlamps, etc.
Symptoms of snow blindness are given below:

Eyes become red and eyelid swelling.
Vision becomes blurred.
Pain in eyes
Excess water formation in eyes
Headache

Note:
Another name of snow blindness is Photokeratitis. Snow blindness is a curable condition. It can be cured by protecting the eyes from UV light exposure by wearing a hat, sunglasses, or by staying at home and taking cold compression. Snow blindness may also lead to conjunctivitis solar retinopathy if not taken care of early.