Air pollution and itchy eyes: Here’s how it affects your eyesight, tips to prevent it

Health risks of air pollution are largely due to the toxic chemicals it contains. Pollution is linked to serious health conditions like stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung diseases (Image: Canva)

Air pollution is caused by both natural events and human activities, and it can have serious effects on your health, including your eyes. According to a report by the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS), both outdoor and indoor air quality can be affected by pollution. When windows and doors are open, outdoor pollutants can easily enter your home, making it hard to avoid their harmful effects. Indoor air pollution, from sources like air conditioning systems, gas burners, and wood stoves, can also negatively impact your health.

The health risks of air pollution are largely due to the toxic chemicals it contains, which can harm the body over time. Also, pollution is linked to serious health conditions like stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung diseases. Every year, around 3.1 million people die prematurely from air pollution-related diseases, and these numbers are expected to rise.
Air pollution doesn’t just harm your lungs, it can also irritate your eyes. Research shows a connection between outdoor pollution and dry eye disease.

Also read | Air pollution and breathing problems: Protect your lungs with exercises, diet rich in Vitamin C and E

Higher levels of ozone and lower humidity have been linked to an increase in dry eye symptoms and diagnoses. Traffic-induced air pollution is a growing issue in urban areas, mainly caused by emissions from vehicles, power stations, and factories. The main pollutants are nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM). NO2 comes from fuel combustion, while PM results from engine emissions, brake and tyre wear, and road dust.  As per research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, living in a city with poor air quality may increase the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness. The study found that people living in highly polluted areas were at least 8 percent more likely to be diagnosed with AMD compared to those in less polluted areas.

Exposure to pollutants can lead to eye discomfort, redness, dryness, and a burning feeling. Here are 7 ways pollution can impact your eyes and tips on how to protect them:

• Avoid direct exposure to polluted air: Try to stay indoors when air pollution levels are high, especially during times of the day when pollution is at its worst (e.g., early morning or late afternoon). Keep windows and doors closed to limit the amount of polluted air entering your home.

• Use air purifiers indoors: Invest in an air purifier for your home. It can help remove harmful particles from the air. This is especially helpful if you live in an area with high outdoor pollution levels.

• Wear sunglasses or protective eyewear: When you do go outside, wearing sunglasses can help protect your eyes from dust and pollutants. Look for glasses that have large, wrap-around lenses to shield your eyes from airborne particles.

• Use lubricating eye drops: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, using over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help soothe them and reduce discomfort caused by pollutants.

• Keep your eyes hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your eyes hydrated and flush out pollutants from your system. Staying hydrated is important for overall health, including your eyes.

• Wash your face regularly: Pollutants in the air can settle on your face and around your eyes. Wash your face with clean water regularly to remove dirt, dust, and other pollutants that could irritate your eyes.

• Consult a doctor if irritation persists: If you experience eye discomfort, redness, or burning sensations, it’s important to see an eye specialist. They can help identify the cause of the irritation and recommend proper treatment.