Pollution wreaks havoc in Delhi-NCR, with long queues of eye patients at hospitals.

Doctors say that dust, smoke, chemical particles, and toxic gases present in the air are very harmful to the eyes. They can damage the cornea, the outer layer of the eye.

Pollution wreaks havoc in Delhi-NCR.

These days, the air in Delhi-NCR has become so toxic that it is difficult to breathe. Since Diwali, the pollution level has remained around 300 every day, which is considered extremely bad for health. This toxic air has caused many diseases in people, including shortness of breath, sore throat, chest pain, etc. However, the eyes are facing the most problems. The number of eye patients in hospitals has increased so much that there are long queues. Every day, hundreds of people are reaching big hospitals in Noida, Ghaziabad, Delhi, and Gurugram with complaints of burning, itching, redness, and watering of eyes.

Doctors said this

Doctors say that dust, smoke, chemical particles, and toxic gases present in the air are very harmful to the eyes. They can damage the cornea, the outer layer of the eye, and if exposed for a long time, can also damage the retina. Previously, eye patients were less frequent. However, now the situation is such that more than half of the patients coming to the OPD are due to pollution. Dr. Anand Verma, head of the eye department of a major hospital, said that earlier, complaints of irritation used to come for a few days after Diwali, but this time the pollution is so severe that 300-400 patients are coming daily with eye problems alone. These include children, the elderly, and the young.

Why does pollution cause problems?

Dr. Verma explained that pollution contains various gases, such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter (PM2.5). All of these enter the eyes and cause irritation. Many people's eyes become so red that it becomes difficult to see. Some experience itching so severe that repeated rubbing leads to infection. Children return from school crying because their eyes hurt. The elderly already suffer from poor eyesight. Now, pollution has made their condition worse.

How are eyes affected by pollution?

Doctors explain that tiny particles in the air absorb moisture from the eyes, leaving them dry. This causes irritation, itching, and redness. If the eyes are rubbed repeatedly, bacteria can enter and cause infection. Some people even suffer from allergies, which cause constant watery eyes. Prolonged exposure to such an environment can even lead to serious diseases like cataracts or glaucoma.

How to save your eyes

• Go out of the house less: Try not to go out in the morning and evening, because pollution is highest at that time.
• Wash your eyes frequently: Wash your eyes with clean, cool water 2-3 times a day to remove dust and particles.
• Drink plenty of water: Keep drinking water throughout the day to keep your body and eyes hydrated.
• Wear sunglasses: When going out, wear good-quality sunglasses or protective glasses that protect against UV and dust.
• Keep hands clean: Wash your hands thoroughly before rubbing your eyes, otherwise infection may occur.
• Eat vegetables and fruits: Eat green vegetables, carrots, spinach, and fruits like oranges, which contain vitamins A and C. These strengthen the eyes.
• Put eye drops: Use lubricating eye drops as per doctor's advice, which provide moisture to the eyes.
• Always wear a mask: Wear an N95 mask, which blocks dust and particles.