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Pollution forms an integral part of the problem that modern society has created. Pollution in cities is now quite common and its ill effects are now quite visible in one’s eyes. The exclusive and sensitive structure of the eyes makes them quite prone to airborne pollutants and eye irritants. In an urbanised environment, an eye disorder has become quite normal. Thus, it becomes essential to know about these pollution-induced eye disorders and how one can prevent oneself from suffering these issues.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Digvijay Singh, Director of Noble Eye Care, Gurugram explains pollution-linked eye disorders and ways to protect them.

Pollution-Linked Eye Disorders

Eye Irritation and Dry Eye Syndrome: Higher levels of dust, increased count of chemical gases being released and heavy pollution are bound to contribute to one’s eye irritation. Dust, pollutants and even strong chemical smog can increase the number of irritants in the conjunctiva making it inflamed leading to a burning sensation and redness in the eye. Eye irritants, especially lesser-known pollutants have contributed towards dry eye Syndrome as vanilla, dry air does not work for all. An eye condition where the eyes do not develop enough tears during dry weather. Air conditioning is also a higher threat, bringing more irritation to polluted moisture.

Allergic Conjunctivitis: As pollen grains, smoke and corrosive fumes are considered eye irritants, an excess of those together with a chance of a significant increase in pollution can trigger an allergic reaction, especially during dry weather. Redness vocalises along with itching combine to result in eye allergies known as allergic conjunctivitis. At times it exerts pressure on the eyes resulting in an ache that severely affects the day-to-day activities of an individual.

Corneal Infections: Infection of a healthy part of the body due to the particulate air that is interconnected to the microorganisms due to pollution is deemed as a corneal infection. In the absence of any medical procedures, it has the capacity to transform into greater attributes such as a corneal ulcer.

Worsening of Pre-Existing Conditions: Cataracts and diabetic retinopathy stand out to be one such eye disease that is aggravated due to exposure to pollution in those individuals who are young and already suffering from such issues. Pollution and the harmful elements in it have the likelihood of raising the intraocular pressure of such patients which results in the aggravation of inflammation.

Cataracts And Retinal Damage: Cataract is an eye disease that would develop decades later on due to prolonged exposure to UV rays and excessive chemical pollution. It doesn’t stop there as the tension caused due to pollution can also result in both age-related and macular degeneration.

How To Protect Your Eyes From Pollution

1. Wear Protective Eyewear: To protect your eyes from brats use glasses. In addition, make sure to wear sunglasses in cases where brats are absent.

2. Maintain Hygiene: To avoid touching the eyes, wash hands regularly.

3. Use Artificial Tears: Lubricating drops go hand in hand in relieving eye irritation and dryness.

4. Invest in Air Purifiers: In order to purify the indoor air, one of the most essential aspects is to get a humidifier.

5. Stop Smoking: Tobacco in cigarette form harms the eyes and increases the likelihood of AMD.

6. Periodic Eye Evaluation: Such evaluations would help to monitor the development of eye maladies caused by pollution.

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