How air pollution impacts your eyes and ways to protect them

Air pollution levels are constantly rising, especially in Delhi. A high amount of toxins, such as nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide, sulfur, etc., present in the air not only impacts the vital organs in our body but also affects our eyes. Too much exposure to toxic air can lead to redness, burning, itching, watery eyes, blurry vision, Infection in eyes and eyelids.

While there is no option to keep yourself from being exposed to the open air, you can protect your eyes by understanding the risks associated with pollution and taking necessary measures. Since our eyes are highly sensitive, it is imperative to take extra care of them.

Exposure to polluted air, both indoors and outdoors, can cause numerous eye issues and can make pre-existing conditions worse. It can be responsible for severe allergic conjunctivitis, eyelid infections and dry eyes. Air pollution can aggravate glaucoma and cause ocular hypertension. Additionally, polluted air can also cause a rapid increase in incidences of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. In long time, it may cause retinal degeneration and may increase the frequency of eye cancer.

Some steps that you can follow to protect your eyes from air pollution are:

A. Avoid stepping out when air quality is poor to limit your exposure to dangerous contaminants.
B. When you go out, make sure to wear high quality protective eyewear to shield your eyes from smog and dust.
C. Do not rub your eyes; to prevent eye infection, make sure you wash your hands and eyes frequently.
D. Drink plenty of water. Hydration is not only essential for your body, but it is also good for your eyes.
E. Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Take a diet rich in omega-3s that includes nuts, flax seeds, salmon, colourful fruits, and vegetables.
F. To minimise the effects of pollution, you can use lubricant eye drops. It will help alleviate eye irritation and redness.
G. Try to avoid excessive screen; it can make the situation worse.
H. In case of eye irritation, avoid wearing contact lenses and do not use eye makeup.
I. To reduce exposure to airborne irritants you can use an air purifier at home and office.

In case the problem persists, do not try to self-treat and visit a nearby ophthalmologist. An eye specialist will be able to help determine the cause of the discomfort and can suggest appropriate treatment before any major concerns occur.

Author: Dr. Priyanka Singh (MBBS, MS, DNB, FAICO), Consultant & Eye Surgeon, Neytra Eye Centre, New Delhi