Air pollution: How to protect your eyes from smog and toxic pollutants

Air pollution can cause serious health problems, including breathing difficulties, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. It can affect your eyes, which are sensitive and prone to irritations from allergies, chemicals, and pollutants in the air. As the pollution levels increase, many people experience problems like dry eyes or allergic conjunctivitis, burning sensation, itchy and sore eyes, sensitivity to air and sun and mild blurring of vision, etc. The air quality in Delhi was recorded as hazardous and severe at several places after Diwali.

As the pollution levels continued to spike in Delhi-NCR, doctors have compared the impact of air pollution on public health to smoking 15-20 cigarettes a day. 

Air pollution and eye care

Here are a few precautions you can take to help minimise the risk of eye infections from smog and other air pollutants.

Avoid exposure to harmful pollutants and stay indoors, especially in the early hours of the morning when the pollution levels are at their peak - this is the golden rule.

If you have to step out, make sure you wear protective eyeglasses and shades which will help minimise your exposure to the pollution causing agents.

Wash your eyes thoroughly with clean, running water every morning, after reaching home from school/college/work and before going off to sleep.

Wash your hands often and avoid rubbing your eyes even if particulates enter them.

Use lubricating eye drops prescribed by eye specialists.

Do not wear contact lens and eye makeup if your eyes are itchy or feeling sore.

Apply a cool compress to help reduce inflammation. 

Do not use screen devices, such as mobile phones and laptops, for long hours. Make sure that you get adequate periods of rest to avoid eye fatigue, dry eyes, and computer vision syndrome.

Eat a healthy diet consisting of foods rich in omega 3s and antioxidants, such as fish, green leafy vegetables, carrots, spinach, almonds, walnuts, and berries - these are extremely good for the eyes.

Install a high-quality air filter or air purifier system at home to help protect your eyes and overall health from pollutants.

Avoid using decongestant eye formulation without medical supervision. 

See an ophthalmologist if you have red eyes, discharge, constant foreign body sensation or allergic symptoms.

Take a pledge today to contain pollution, after all, every small effort matters and everyone needs to do their own part urgently in this matter!  

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