Air Pollution Poses a Risk to Eye Health: Doctors Recommend These Precautions!

Winter brings not only cold weather and fog but also increased concerns about air pollution, which can affect eye health. Fine particulate matter such as PM2.5, smoke, nitrogen dioxide, ozone and other pollutants can settle on the surface of the eyes and cause irritation. These pollutants may damage the protective tear film, resulting in dryness, redness, itching, burning sensations and excessive watering. Some people may also experience a gritty sensation, heavy eyelids and temporarily blurred vision that improves after blinking. These symptoms can become more severe during mornings and evenings when fog and smog levels are high. In many cases, the discomfort subsides after moving away from heavily polluted areas.

To protect the eyes, people should avoid rubbing them, even when they feel itchy. Washing the face with clean water after returning home, using preservative-free lubricating eye drops as advised by a doctor, and placing a clean, cool cloth over closed eyelids can help provide relief. Wearing spectacles or sunglasses outdoors and choosing regular glasses instead of contact lenses on highly polluted days can also reduce irritation. Maintaining clean indoor air and taking regular breaks from mobile phones and computer screens are equally important. People should avoid using steroid, antibiotic or redness-relief eye drops without medical advice, as inappropriate use can cause complications. Anyone experiencing severe eye pain, blurred or reduced vision, sensitivity to light, thick yellow or green discharge, or symptoms that persist for two to three days should consult an eye specialist. Contact lens users experiencing pain or redness should seek medical attention on the same day.