The National Pollution Control Day is observed on December 2 every year in India.
Human eyes are sensitive and prone to irritations from allergies, chemicals, and pollutants in the air. Some people might notice their eyes are red and itchy on days, the level of air pollution is high. Manifestations of air pollution can range from minimal or no symptoms to chronic discomfort and eye irritation.
The major causes of air pollution in the country are fuel and biomass burning, adulteration of fuel, traffic jams, and greenhouse gas emissions. Some of the air pollutants that are commonly found in the air include:
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
- Nitrogen dioxide (NO)
- Sulfur dioxide (SO2)
- Arsenic, asbestos, benzene, lead, chlorofluorocarbons, particulate matter, and dioxin
Symptoms in the Eye
There is a range of symptoms that occur due to air pollution. It may range from simple irritation and burning to a severe allergy, cataract, and in rare cases even increase the risk of cancer. The most commonly experienced problems are- redness, burning sensation
, watering, ropy discharge, itching sensation, dry & gritty sensation, difficulty in vision due to watering and itching, etc.Studies have found that in areas where air pollution is high, people are more likely to report eye-related discomfort and are 3 to 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with dry eye. Dry eye syndrome (DES) is the most frequent complaint among these symptoms, with the incidence of DES two times greater in women over 50. The eye’s surface is inflamed and dry in DES, particularly when the patient wears a contact lens. As NO2 levels rise, conjunctivitis becomes a common feature.
Precautions to Save Your Eyes from Air Pollution:
Frequent Blinking
Our eyes need moisture to remain comfortable. Blinking helps provide this, along with nourishment.
Hydration
The first and easiest thing you can do is to stay hydrated. Your body needs to be hydrated for your eyes to produce the correct amount of tears.
Use Sun Glasses
Stay indoors when pollution levels are at their peak If there is excessive particulate matter in the air, limit your exposure to outdoors, and wherever possible, protect your eyes with spectacles and/or masks. If it is necessary for you to go outside, wear sunglasses (wrap-around styles are best) to prevent pollutants from entering your eyes.
Sunglasses are great for eyes with basic protection from dust, debris, or sand blowing in the wind.
Contacts Lens Users
If wearing contact lenses, use lubricating eye drops as needed and ensure that you clean and disinfect your lenses thoroughly with lens solution each time you wear or remove them. Protective glasses over contact lenses may be useful if the air contaminant levels are high. If there is any irritation and/or foreign body sensation with contact lenses, remove them immediately and rinse your eyes with lubricant eye drops. Clean lenses thoroughly before reinserting.
Avoid wearing contact lenses and eye makeup if your eyes are feeling sore. Contact lenses can cause eye infections if used incorrectly and a lot of attention and care should be exercised by contact lens wearers for their daily eye care regime.
Indoor Humidity
Another easy way to protect your eyes is to increase the indoor humidity in your home. The air outside may be dry, but that doesn’t mean the air in your home needs to be. This will help your eyes keep moist and has several other health benefits like keeping your sinuses clear!