We all know that air pollution can be detrimental to human health, but we tend to focus more on respiratory issues, heart diseases, inflammation, and lung cancer. But how air pollution affects the eyes? In fact, air pollution and eye health are closely related, with various pollutants leading to eye irritation and even long-term damage. Would you like to know more about it? Keep reading!
Table of Contents
- The most dangerous types of air pollutants
- Air pollution and eye – irritating effects
- Effect of pollution on eyes: long-term exposure
- How to protect eyes from air pollution?
- Air pollution and eye health – Conclusion
The most dangerous types of air pollutants
When we’re talking about air pollution and eye health, we should learn more about the main chemicals that are present in most cities and trigger the most damage. They include carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), asbestos, benzene, particulate matter, arsenic, lead, dioxin, and chlorofluorocarbons. Smoke is another irritant, and when it comes into contact with the eyes, its tiny particles can melt into your tears, coating the surface of the eye and causing adverse effects. 
Air pollution and eye – irritating effects
Can air pollution cause eye problems? Yes, air pollution can cause eye problems, and the list of health issues caused by pollution effects on eyes is extensive. The least threatening conditions include burning, redness, irritation, and eye-watering. Of course, with prolonged exposure, symptoms may worsen and contain itching, discharge, gritty sensation, and increased risk of infections as well. In severe cases, visual difficulties may appear with impaired color vision and refractive errors. In some people, air pollution can trigger allergy with redness, itching, discharge, and swelling of the eyes (sometimes even with difficulty in opening them).
Effect of pollution on eyes: long-term exposure
The most common issue people experience because of air pollution is dry eye syndrome (DES). It happens when the eye isn’t able to produce enough tears, and, as a result, it can’t be moistened and nourished properly. Redness, soreness, and inflammation appear, and the eyes become sensitive to light, wind, and smoke. Sometimes mucus forms around the eyeballs too. The most dangerous air pollution and eye health effects include cataracts and cancer.
How to protect eyes from air pollution?
So, how to protect eyes from air pollution? Here are some helpful tips. Whenever possible, try to stay indoors when pollution levels are high. If you must go outside, wearing glasses (not contact lenses) can help block dust and other pollutants from irritating your eyes. If irritation occurs, applying a cool compress over the eyes or using lubricating eye drops can provide some relief.
If you live in an area with high levels of air pollution, it is crucial to stay aware of air quality reports and take extra precautions when necessary. By doing so, you can help protect your eyes from the harmful effects of pollution.
Air pollution and eye health – Conclusion
In conclusion, air pollution and eye health are more connected than most people realize. The harmful pollutants in the air can cause a wide range of eye problems, from mild irritation to more serious conditions such as dry eye syndrome, cataracts, and even cancer. By staying informed about air quality levels and taking proactive steps to protect your eyes, you can significantly reduce the risks posed by pollution. Remember, wearing glasses, staying indoors when pollution is high, and using eye drops can help minimize the impact of air pollution on your eyes.
Also check out How air pollution affect your skin.