As Delhi remains enveloped in heavy smog, ophthalmologists are seeing a 50 % jump in eye problems highlighting how air pollution affects not just lungs but vision too.
Glimpse:
The toxic mix of firecracker smoke, high particulate matter and chemical residues in Delhi is not only damaging respiratory health but also causing a sharp rise in ocular complaints such as dryness, burning, watering and gritty sensations. Doctors estimate a 50 % increase in such cases recently.
Doctors in the national capital report a significant uptick in eye-related ailments as smog levels soar. According to ophthalmologists at major hospitals, the number of patients experiencing symptoms like gritty sensation, burning eyes, watery discharge and corneal irritation has increased by approximately 50 % compared to recent weeks.
Medical experts attribute this surge to ambient air pollution compounded by firecracker emissions sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, heavy metals, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) which irritate the ocular surface and cornea. Prof Sudarshan Khokhar of AIIMS warned that persistent exposure may damage the cornea irreversibly.
In response, doctors advise residents especially children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing eye conditions to avoid outdoor exposure when air quality is poor, use protective eyewear or masks, keep indoor air clean with air purifiers, and seek ophthalmic attention if symptoms persist.
“When the sky thickens with smog, it’s not just our lungs that choke our eyes feel it too.”
By
HB Team
