New Delhi: As toxic smog continues to blanket the national capital, ophthalmologists have reported a sharp 50 per cent rise in eye-related complaints, warning that the city’s worsening air quality is taking a serious toll on ocular health.
The spike in cases includes symptoms such as eye allergies, dryness, burning sensations, and excessive watering, affecting both adults and children. Doctors attribute the surge to a hazardous mix of smoke, particulate matter, and chemical residues, particularly from post-Diwali firecracker pollution.
“If your cornea gets damaged, you need a corneal transplant to restore your vision. However, if pollution levels continue to rise, a time will come when no corneal transplant will be effective, because the cornea is getting damaged due to pollution,” Prof Sudarshan Khokhar, Professor of Ophthalmology at AIIMS told IANS. He noted that elderly individuals are especially vulnerable due to naturally weakened corneas.
Dr Rajesh Sinha, also from AIIMS’ RP Centre, confirmed a significant increase in patients reporting gritty, heavy eyes, classic signs of pollution-induced ocular allergy. “Even healthy individuals are experiencing irritation due to the poor air quality,” he said.
Experts explained that fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) settles on the eye’s surface, disrupting the tear film and triggering inflammation. Pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide further react with eye moisture, causing chemical irritation.
“Every year after Diwali, we brace for a rise in eye complaints,” said senior ophthalmologist Dr Harbansh Lal. “The number of patients complaining of itching, redness, and irritation has gone up by almost 50-60 per cent. We are seeing patients with severe eye allergies, and those who already have dry eyes are experiencing much more discomfort than usual. The combination of pollution, dust, and chemical exposure is proving extremely harmful for the ocular surface.”
He added that contact lens users and individuals wearing eye makeup are particularly at risk, as trapped particles can intensify irritation.
Doctors are urging residents to take preventive measures such as wearing protective glasses and using lubricating eye drops. “Protecting your eyes is just as important as protecting your lungs during this season,” Dr Sinha advised.
(Inputs from IANS)