Air pollution causes many health ailments including various kind of problems related to the eye. In fact, there is a sudden expansion in the quantity of the people complaining all kind of eye allergies and infection like watering of eyes, red eyes, burning in eyes, itchy eyes and dry eyes. Human eyes are very sensitive. We have often seen that even if there is smallest dust particle in our eyes we often experience the discomfort.
The smoke combined with the moisture in the fog is smog which is hazardous and irritating to human eyes. The air pollution though not much visible as a dust particle or sand particle has an equal or more lethal effect on our eyes in the long run. The researchers have found a strong connection between air pollutants and conjunctivitis.
Effects of smog on Human Eyes
- Redness
- Feeling of dryness
- Burning or stinging sensation in the eye
- Formation of mucus in and around the eyes
- Sticky eyelids
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery eyes
There are certain practices a person can adapt to the precautionary measure to minimize these symptoms as soon as possible.
- Minimize the exposure
Avoid walking or riding a bike along the busy street. Places which are heavily industrialized should be abstained from going. When you are commuting during peak traffic hours choose to close the windows of the car to be closed so that further exposure can be prevented. If possible avoid going out of home and office between noon and 4 pm as the air quality is poor when the temperature is highest.
- Eye gear
Whenever you are moving out of the house, office etc. wear sunglasses. Make sure your sunglasses are appropriately large to give proper UV protection and for eye protection from dust and smoke. You can always wrap-around zero powered eyewear it provides maximum protection.
- Do not rub:
Avoid rubbing eye in case any tiny pollutant gets in your eye. Do not rub the eyes in such condition rather wash it with water and you can also apply lubricating eye drop for relief.
- Proper care:
Take adequate care of your eyes once you are home. Wash your eyes with cold water, when you come back from outside. You can also buy a good quality home air filter and install it in your house for blocking out any particulate matter. Place cucumber on your eyes and rest for reducing inflammation. Also, you can lubricate the eyes with eye drop recommended by the eye specialist on a daily basis.
- Eat healthily:
Eat healthy food for looking after your eyes. Your diet should include carrot, green leafy vegetable, almond, fish, walnut, papaya etc. which are extremely good for eyes.
In case of any irritation or prolonged infection contact your eye specialist for a check-up.
