Air Pollution & Eye Health: Doctors Warn of Rising Eye Diseases, Offer Safety Tips

• Air pollution, particularly PM2.5, is increasingly linked to a rise in eye diseases, worsening existing conditions and increasing infection risk.
• Dr. Ajay Sharma of Eye Q Eye Hospital notes a winter surge in patients with red, itchy, watery, and burning eyes due to high pollution.
• PM2.5 particles can scratch the cornea, while chemical-laden liquid particles weaken the eye's protective tear layer.
• Symptoms include allergic conjunctivitis, corneal scratches, dryness, and blurred vision, with children, the elderly, and post-surgery patients at higher risk.
• Doctors advise avoiding polluted areas, maintaining good hygiene, and washing hands before touching eyes to protect against particulate matter.

Why It Matters: Air pollution significantly impacts eye health; protect your eyes by avoiding polluted areas and practicing good hygiene.