Delhi is currently the most polluted city in the world and it is not just the lungs that are affected. Itchy eyes and allergies increase among children.
Even as the national capital continues to battle poor air quality, experts on Wednesday said toxic pollutants are causing dry eyes, irritations and allergies in the eyes of children and adults. On Wednesday morning, Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘severe’ category with an average air quality index (AQI) of 427 at 10 am, making it the most polluted city in India , according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
“Pollution poses a serious threat to our eyes, particularly the conjunctiva and cornea, which is the first point of contact with harmful particles in the air. Fine particles, allergens and toxins in polluted environments can irritate the ocular surface and make it highly susceptible to infections,” Dr Rohit Saxena, professor of ophthalmology, RP Center for Ophthalmic Sciences, AIIMS New Delhi, told IANS.
Eye health in children amid rising pollution
“This is especially concerning in children and adults who already experience dry eyes or allergic reactions, as these conditions worsen with exposure to poor air quality,” he added.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus showed that people living in areas with higher exposure to PM10 may have twice the risk of eye infections.
The study showed that clinic visits for patients suffering from ocular surface conditions (affecting the ocular surface, including the cornea, conjunctiva and eyelids) doubled when environmental particles from air pollution were in the atmosphere.
Air pollution can significantly affect eye health, causing discomfort and irritation. Polluted air carries suspended particles, dust and pollutants that can irritate the eyes.
Saxena noted that frequently rubbing your eyes when they are irritated can weaken the cornea over time and lead to conditions such as keratoconus, an eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, which can lead to vision loss. .
Common symptoms include itching, watering, burning, redness, and a general feeling of pain.
“In severe cases, air pollution can cause pain or blurred vision, requiring immediate medical attention,” Dr Smriti Goel, consultant eye surgery at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Patparganj, told IANS.
The doctor suggested avoiding over-the-counter medications other than lubricating eye drops unless prescribed by a doctor.
“Use lubricating drops to maintain moisture and apply cold compresses to relieve irritation. Wear goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust and contaminants. For people prone to allergies, anti-allergy eye drops and timely treatment are essential. These measures can help protect your eyes from pollution-related problems,” Goel said.
Pollution is not just a respiratory problem: It has harmful effects on the entire body, including eye health, said experts, who recommended people limit outdoor exposure during peak pollution periods.
(With IANS inputs)
