Every year, the air becomes smoky and cloudy due to fireworks during Diwali celebrations. Poor air quality index or AQI levels increase the risk of respiratory and eye-related health problems. According to studies published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, pollution can seriously damage our eyes if proper care is not taken.
What are five common eye problems caused by pollution?
Let’s take a look at five common eye problems caused by pollution and learn how to recognize the early symptoms:
1. Dryness and discomfort
Many people have dry and irritated eyes. This mainly happens due to smoke and small particles present in the air. These tears can strip moisture from the film, a thin layer that protects the eyes and keeps them hydrated.
Detecting early symptoms:
- Grit: You may feel as if there is sand in your eyes.
- Redness: “Pay attention to increasing redness in your eyes, which may be accompanied by discomfort,” ophthalmologist Dr. Divya Rao tells Health Shots.
- Blurry vision: Dry eyes can cause temporary blurriness, especially after reading or using a screen for long periods of time.
What you can do:
- Use lubricating eye drops to relieve symptoms.
- Ensure proper hydration.
2. Allergic reactions
After Diwali, the air often becomes bad due to pollution. This may cause allergy. The dust, smoke and chemicals from fireworks can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people.
Identifying allergy symptoms:
- Itchy eyes: You may feel the urge to rub your eyes, but doing so can make the irritation worse.
- Watery eyes: “Watery eyes are a common response to allergies. It’s important to identify the cause of this tearing, whether it’s due to irritation or an allergic reaction,” says the expert.
- Swollen eyelids: Pay attention to swelling around your eyes. This may mean that you are having an allergic reaction.
Preventive Action:
- Consider wearing sunglasses outside to reduce risk.
- Over-the-counter antihistamines can help relieve symptoms. If your symptoms are severe, talk to a healthcare provider.
3. Increased photosensitivity
Are you squinting more than usual? After Diwali, small amounts of pollutants may accumulate in your eyes, making you more sensitive to light. This may be more uncomfortable if you spend a lot of time in front of a screen or outside in bright sunlight.
Recognizing the symptoms:
- Discomfort with bright light: You may feel the need to avoid brightly lit rooms or the sun.
- Temporary blindness: A brief moment of blurred vision may occur in bright settings.
For sensitive eyes:
- Use tinted lenses or sunglasses when going out.
- Taking regular short breaks from screens can help reduce eye strain.
4. Indoor mesh and screen fatigue
It may seem safe to stay indoors after Diwali, but it is not so. The air inside your home can also cause eye problems. “Scented candles, incense and decorative aerosols can fill the air with tiny particles,” the doctor says. Additionally, excess screen time during the festive season can cause digital strain on the eyes.
Common symptoms of screen fatigue:
- Headache: Often the result of staring at a screen uninterrupted for long periods of time.
- Eye Fatigue: A feeling of tiredness in the eyes can make it difficult to concentrate.
How to reduce eye strain indoors:
- Ensure good ventilation in your living spaces.
- “Take regular screen breaks; the 20-20-20 rule is a great guideline: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds,” says the ophthalmologist.
- Hydrate! Keep a water bottle nearby to stay adequately hydrated.
5. Long-term vision effects
It is important to understand that what seems to be a temporary irritation can turn into more serious health problems with prolonged exposure to pollution. Research published in Particle and Fiber Toxicology shows a worrying link between regular exposure to fine particles and the rapid development of diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.
Warning signs of long-term problems:
- Difficulty seeing at night: If vision continues to become blurry at night, it’s time to seek help.
- Frequent eye pain: If you experience frequent eye discomfort, it may be a sign of deeper problems.
Stay ahead:
- Schedule regular eye exams, especially if you live in polluted areas.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants to maintain eye health.
,Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you have about a medical condition.)
