Protecting Eyes From Pollution – 5 Effective Ways of Preventing Dryness

With the growing air pollution in India and across the world, the air quality levels of several places are recorded to be hazardous. Our population is exposed to such noxious air quality. Air pollution is considered to be the major cause of diseases and even premature deaths. Severe challenges have to be faced by people regarding air pollution. The air has fine particulate matter which exceeds WHO guidelines in a lot of urban areas. 

Pollution is not only linked to respiratory issues. It also affects the eyes, which is alarming too. It is very important to protect your eyes from pollution. Extended exposure to smoke, dust, and industrial emissions may lead to dryness and irritation, redness, tearing, and a risk of eye infections. 

Air pollution harms your eyes through 

• Chemical pollutants 
• Dust and debris 
• Pollen and allergens 
• Vehicle emissions and smoke 

All these are the causes of irritation and dryness of your eyes. Airborne pollutants contain gases, chemicals, and fine particles that can irritate and dry your eyes. Dust and smoke can lead to dryness and redness and can even scratch the cornea. 

Various effects of pollution on the eyes 

Eyes can be affected by pollution in two ways – 

• Immediate irritation – burning sensation, blurred vision, red and watery eyes, and itchy eyes. 
• Long-term complications – due to extended exposure, the risk of dry eye syndrome, chronic eye inflammation, corneal damage and vision deterioration is increased. 

Strategies to protect your eyes from pollution 

• Maintaining eye hygiene to prevent irritation and infections –  pollutants settle on eyelids and eyelashes, which increase the risk of infections and irritation. It is essential to maintain proper hygiene to keep your eyes healthy. 

1. You can wash your eyes with clean water. 
2. Using cold compresses can soothe the irritation and reduce the redness. 
3. It’s better to avoid rubbing your eyes because this will push the pollutants deeper into the eyes, causing the risk of infection. 

• Using protective eyewear can prevent direct exposure to airborne pollutants. 

1. Blue light filtering glasses 
2. UV-protected sunglasses 
3. Anti-pollution or wrap-around glasses 

The glasses will help in blocking the dust and the harmful UV rays of the sun. Also, the strain caused by extended screen time could be managed with glasses. 

• Keeping eyes hydrated is essential as it can combat dryness. 

1. Drinking enough water can reduce dehydration, thereby reducing natural tear production. 
2. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids in the diet can improve the tear quality and reduce dryness as well. 
3. Using lubricating eye drops can help retain moisture and flush out pollutants. 

• Strengthening your eyes naturally with the help of rest, nutrition and exercise can improve eye health. 

1. Eating antioxidant-rich foods like almonds, spinach and carrots and practising simple eye exercises can improve flexibility and reduce strain. 
2. Following the 20-20 rule can be helpful in reducing digital eye strain. 

• Reduction in air pollution can minimise the exposure at work and home by – 

1. Keeping windows closed during the peak hours of pollution. 
2. Using an air purifier to remove the airborne pollutants. 
3. Avoiding smoking indoors can help keep away the irritation. 

Must see a doctor if you experience  – 

• Eye pain, swelling, or discharge 
• Blurry vision or increased sensitivity to light 
• Extreme dryness even after using the lubricating eye drops 
• Constant redness in the eyes, as well as irritation that is not improving with home remedies. 

Conclusion 

If pollution is affecting your eyes, expert care can help you restore comfort. Visit Mitra Eye Hospital, which is the best eye hospital in Phagwara. You can talk to our specialists for a check up of the eyes. Our doctors will help you in protecting your eyes from pollution by asking you about a few steps to follow.