The impact of air pollution on eye health and how to prevent it

The large number of gas emissions from motorized vehicles is the main contributor to air pollution in big cities. Bad air pollution can be bad for health. Usually, air pollution is associated with health problems related to breathing. However, air pollution can also have a bad impact on your eyes.

Impact of air pollution on eye health

According to WHO, air pollution is the biggest environmental health risk. In fact, it is estimated that 4.6 million people die each year due to exposure to air pollution.

Not only respiratory problems, exposure to air pollution can cause eye symptoms ranging from minor eye irritation to constant discomfort.

Most likely this is due to the presence of ozone (O3). The ozone here is not the ozone layer which is part of the earth's atmosphere.

Ozone is a type of above-ground pollutant which is the result of the sun's reaction with primary pollutants such as NO and NO2.

Source: Sharp Sight Center

Pollutants in air pollution can be carried over long distances and can cause long-term adverse impacts on human health, including eye health.

A study has shown that an increase in air pollution levels results in an increase in cases of ophthalmological emergencies (eye disorders) in people in Paris, France.

Ozone levels can change the pH in the lacrimal glands which function as tear producers. When ozone in air pollution enters the lacrimal glands, these pollutants will dissolve and will turn them into acids. This acid is what later causes irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes.

In addition, air pollutants are not only generated outdoors but also indoors. Some electronic machines such as air conditioners and refrigerators can produce pollutants called CFCs or chlorofluorocarbons. When exposed to outside air, CFCs make the ozone layer thinner.

As a result, the destruction of the ozone layer triggers an increase in ultraviolet radiation. Exposure to ultraviolet light can cause cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye diseases.

Prevents eye irritation due to air pollution

Eye irritation can happen to anyone, especially if you live in a big city. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to protect your eyes from being affected by air pollution.

Wear protective glasses

Especially when you are traveling using public transportation which allows your eyes to be exposed to various harmful pollutants from vehicle fumes.

Use glasses to reduce the entry of particles into the eye. You can also wear sunglasses to reduce exposure to UV rays.

Have eye drops available on the go

The eye has a corneal layer which functions to protect the eye from bacteria, dirt, and other particles. To stay moisturised, carry eye drops with you whenever you travel.

The eye drops used are those containing artificial tears, not those containing antibiotics or steroids. Use it whenever you feel your eyes getting dry.

Dripping 2-3 times at regular intervals a day can also help relax the eye muscles.

Avoid the habit of rubbing your eyes

Particles from air pollution that come into contact with the eyes can have an itchy effect. Even though it's sometimes unbearable, don't rub your eyes especially with unwashed hands. Rubbing your eyes will actually make irritation worse.

To fix this, it's better to use a compress with a cloth dampened in cold water and then rub it on the eyes. You can also use chunks of ice wrapped in a clean cloth.

Drink a lot of water

Dehydration occurs when you don't consume enough water. This condition will also make it more difficult for the eyes to produce the basal tear film. Therefore, drinking lots of water will help prevent eye irritation.

Check your eyes regularly

Regular eye exams are things you can do to ensure that your eyes are always in good health. Especially if you start experiencing problems such as dry eyes or tired eyes that you continue to feel.

The examination can also determine the presence of disease so that you can get treatment earlier before the condition worsens.