In today's world, increasing levels of smog and pollution have become a major public health concern. We often associate these environmental problems with respiratory issues, but we tend to overlook their significant impact on the eyes. Our eyes are precious and it is important to understand the dangers that smog and pollution pose to our vision.
Understanding The Impact Of Smog And Pollution On Eye Health
Air pollution isn't just a threat to our lungs; it is also harmful to our eyes. “Smog, a mixture of smoke and fog, often contains small particles and toxic chemicals that can irritate the eyes. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can lead to various eye diseases, one of the common problems being dry eye syndrome, when the eyes don't produce enough tears in order to maintain proper lubrication.,” warns Mr Japin Charan - HOD Optometry, Aqualens, Lenskart.
Pollutants in the air can make this condition worse, causing discomfort and blurred vision.
In addition to dry eyes, pollution can cause allergies that affect the eyes. Itchy, red, and watery eyes are common symptoms and can be very uncomfortable. However, those aren't just minor inconveniences. Smog and pollutants contain fine particles and chemicals that can cause a variety of eye problems over time. For example, people who live in heavily polluted areas have a higher risk of developing cataracts, a condition characterised by clouding of the eye's natural lens, leading to blurred vision. Therefore, protecting our eyes from harmful environmental factors is essential.
Also Read: As Air Pollution In Delhi-NCR Gets Worse, People React On Their Worsening Health
Tips for Protecting Your Eyes from Smog and Pollution
Choose Eyewear With Proper UV Protection: Mr Charan suggests wearing eyewear such as contact lenses that block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is a simple yet effective way to shield your eyes from pollution. UV rays are not only harmful to your skin but can also impact your eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions.
Keep Your Hands Clean: Keeping your hands clean is of prime importance. We often touch our faces, including our eyes, while not realising that our hands are unclean. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water helps prevent the transfer of pollutants from your hands to your eyes. Make washing hands at regular intervals a part of your daily routine, especially before touching your face.
Cleaning And Caring For Contact Lenses: In areas with dust and pollution, it is essential to keep contact lenses clean and observe good hygiene. “Airborne irritants can settle on the lens, disrupting the tear film and causing potential infection. Maintaining lens cleanliness not only ensures comfort and clear vision but also protects long-term eye health, especially in environments where air quality is compromised,” shares Mr Charan.
Also Read: How Does Air Pollution Level Erode Eye Health? Watch Out For These Problems
Clean Your Glasses: If you wear eyeglasses, don't forget to clean them regularly. Dust and particles from polluted air can settle on your lenses, impairing your vision. Use a clean cloth to clean your glasses and avoid using paper towels or dirty clothes as they can scratch the lenses.
Regular Eye Exams: It's essential to have routine eye check-ups, especially if you live in a heavily polluted area. Your eye care professional can detect early signs of eye problems and provide guidance on protecting your vision. Regular exams are a proactive approach to ensure your eyes remain healthy.
Signs To Look Out For Effects Of Smog On Eyes
There are some common symptoms that can indicate eye problems related to pollution. For example: Itchy or irritated eyes, redness and inflammation, watery eyes, sensitivity to light, blurred or distorted vision.
If you experience any of the symptoms and whether they persist or disappear, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to more serious eye problems. Your eye care professional can provide you with the treatments and advice you need to protect your vision.
Abhinav Singh, Senior Consultant at Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals quotes, "The harmful particulates in smog and pollution don't just affect our respiratory health; they have a direct, often overlooked impact on our ocular health. Conditions such as dry eye syndrome and conjunctivitis are common in areas with heavy pollution. Over time, there's even evidence to suggest that cataract progression can be exacerbated by these pollutants."
"A strategic and multi-pronged approach is essential. Firstly, invest in high-quality, wrap-around sunglasses with the capacity to block 100% of UV rays. This not only protects against the sun's harmful rays but also reduces exposure to airborne pollutants. Pairing this with a wide-brimmed hat offers a second layer of defence. Additionally, using over-the-counter artificial tears helps counteract the drying effects of pollutants. As we continue to adapt to changing environmental conditions, it's paramount that our protective measures evolve in tandem," he concludes.
