The rising levels of air pollution in metropolitan areas have far-reaching implications for human health, and our eyes bear an unfair burden. While the consequences of air pollution on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems have been widely established, eye-related disorders are frequently overlooked. Pollutants like PM, NO₂, and SO₂ silently cause eye tiredness, discomfort, and long-term damage to our ocular health.
Here’s how as shared by Dr. Ajay Sharma, Founder and Chief Medical Director of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals:
Air pollution is a complex mixture of solid particles and gases, with PM2.5 and PM10 posing the greatest risk to human health. PM2.5, in particular, is small enough to penetrate the body’s defenses and enter the bloodstream. Other pollutants like NO₂, primarily emitted by vehicles, and SO₂, a byproduct of industrial processes, also play a role in the degradation of eye health.
As these pollutants interact with the cornea—the most sensitive part of the human body—they trigger irritation, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, and dryness. The eye’s defense mechanism, a thin precorneal tear film, is not strong enough to consistently fend off these harmful substances.
Pollution-induced eye fatigue manifests quickly in heavily polluted environments. Common symptoms include dryness, burning, itching, and watery eyes. These symptoms are a direct result of the eye’s exposure to harmful airborne particles, which break down the protective tear film. As individuals encounter more pollutants, the discomfort becomes persistent, impairing their ability to focus on daily tasks.
Symptoms like blurred vision and eye fatigue hinder focus at work, on the road, or even during recreational activities. Over time, this ongoing irritation not only reduces productivity but also negatively impacts overall well-being, creating a constant barrier to efficient functioning.
This discomfort is particularly intensified for those who commute long distances, especially in open vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles, or scooters, where exposure to pollutants is significantly higher. A study conducted in New Delhi found that individuals who commuted daily for over 10 years experienced more frequent and severe eye symptoms compared to those who lived near their workplaces.
The long-term impact of pollution on eye health is alarming. Prolonged exposure to high levels of PM2.5 and nitrogen oxides (NOx) has been linked to more severe eye conditions like allergic conjunctivitis and glaucoma. Additionally, research suggests that individuals exposed to traffic-related pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and ozone, face an elevated risk of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). These conditions progressively damage vision and, if left untreated, can result in blindness.
Pollution has also been associated with an increased prevalence of myopia (nearsightedness). As these pollutants accumulate over time, they cause subclinical changes to the ocular surface, leading to conditions that are often irreversible. In regions where pollution levels consistently exceed World Health Organization (WHO) limits, the likelihood of developing these conditions is considerably higher.
While eliminating exposure to pollutants may not be entirely feasible, there are measures that can be taken to reduce the effects of pollution-induced eye fatigue. Using protective eyewear, such as glasses or sunglasses, helps to shield the eyes from direct exposure to particulate matter. For those who commute long distances or live in areas with high pollution levels, incorporating lubricating eye drops into their routine can help restore moisture to the eyes and alleviate symptoms of dryness and irritation.
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