Even as the national capital continues to battle poor air quality, experts said on Wednesday that toxic pollutants are causing dry eyes, irritation and allergies in the eyes of children and adults.
On Wednesday morning, Delhi’s air quality remained in the “severe” category with the average air quality index (AQI) at 427 at 10 am, making it the most polluted city in India, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. went
“Pollution poses a serious threat to our eyes, especially to the conjunctiva and cornea, which is the first point of contact with harmful particles in the air. Fine particles, allergens, and toxins in a polluted environment can irritate the surface of the eye and make it more susceptible to infections,” Dr. Rohit Saxena, Professor of Ophthalmology, RP Center for Ophthalmic Sciences, AIIMS New Delhi,
“This is of particular concern for children and adults who are already experiencing dry eyes or allergic reactions, as these conditions worsen with exposure to poor air quality,” he added.
On Wednesday morning, about 12 of Delhi’s 38 air quality monitoring stations reported an AQI of 450 or more. Environment Minister Gopal Rai has directed the Delhi government to allow half of the staff to work from home.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus showed that people living in areas with increased exposure to PM10 may have a two-fold increased risk of eye infections.
The study showed that clinical visits by patients suffering from ocular surface conditions — which affect the surface of the eye, including the cornea, conjunctiva and eyelids — more than doubled when particulate matter from air pollution was present in the environment. There were substances.
Air pollution can significantly affect eye health, causing discomfort and irritation. Polluted air contains suspended particles, dust and pollutants that can irritate the eyes.
Saxena noted that repeated rubbing of irritated eyes can weaken the cornea over time and lead to conditions like keratoconus — an eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape. , which can cause vision loss.
Common symptoms include itching, watery, burning, redness, and a general feeling of pain.
“In severe cases, air pollution can cause pain or blurred vision, which requires immediate medical attention,” Dr. Smriti Goyal, Consultant – Eye Surgery, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Patparganj,
Avoid over-the-counter medications other than lubricating eye drops unless prescribed by a doctor, the doctor advises.
“Use lubricating drops to retain moisture, and apply cold compresses to relieve irritation. Wear protective glasses or sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust and pollutants. For allergy sufferers, anti-allergy eye drops drops and timely treatment are essential. These measures can help protect your eyes from pollution-related issues,” said Goyal.
Pollution isn’t just a respiratory problem – it has damaging effects on the whole body, including eye health, with experts recommending people limit outdoor exposure during peak pollution periods.