Dry eyes, redness, swelling, and burning eyes are all side effects that can be experienced if there is constant exposure to heavy metals in the air. The particulate matter settles on the surface of the eyes, resulting in discomfort, irritation, and many other eye conditions. In order to combat this rising threat, it is imperative to know the necessary symptoms, long-term risks, and simple ways to protect the eyes from the dangerous spike in air pollution. The Science Of Eye Damage: How Pollutants Attack The Eyes The eyes are a mucous membrane that is directly exposed to the polluted air present in indoor and outdoor spaces. Here are four major pollutants that impact eye health that are present in the hazardous level air quality: 1. Particulate Matter The particulate matter (PM) 2.5 and PM10 are not just a respiratory system concern, but remain a growing threat to the eyes as well. The tiny irritating particles cause direct irritation that results in constant rubbing of the eyes, which can worsen the problem. Touching the eyes frequently without properly washing your hands can introduce toxins that can damage the sensitive outer layer of the eyes. 2. Ozone The presence of ozone in the polluted air can even cause chemical burns in the eyes, which is an alarming issue that needs immediate medical attention for treatment. This highly reactive gas can increase oxidative stress on the eyes, resulting in the development of various eye issues and impairing vision in the long term. 3. Nitrogen Dioxide And Sulfur Dioxide These two industrial air pollutants can enter the eyes through repeated exposure to polluted air in the outdoors and can also be trapped inside in commercial spaces. The pollutants get dissolved in the tear film of the eyes, forming mild acids and leading to chemical irritation. Along with this serious impact, they also inflame the outer layer of the eyes, which is one of the main causes of swelling. 4. Volatile Compounds The cleaning products that are used to maintain hygiene and paints used in commercial and housing spaces emit harmful aerosolised vapours that can settle in the lungs. Symptoms Of Air Pollution Eye Damage There are various symptoms that can indicate that the rising is effecting eye health, but there are two types of these symptoms. Here are some short-term symptoms of how rising air pollution is affecting eye health: The outer layer of the eyes is destabilized as the air pollutants break down the protective outer layer in the eyes. This causes rapid evaporation, which leads to the development of dry eyes, irritation, and sometimes even swelling if the eyes are being touched constantly.  

•  triggers the release of inflammation molecules on the surface of the eyes, leading to chronic redness, irritation, and cellular damage.
• Allergic response gets triggered as the particles carrying allergens enter the eyes, leading to conjunctivitis and symptoms of severe allergies.
• While long-term exposure to air pollutants can lead to the following symptoms:
• Developing dry eye syndrome is the most common link to consistent exposure to air pollutants.

  As grittiness, burning, watering of eyes for a long-term of period of time can signal that particulate matter is effecting eye health.  

• Allergic conjunctivitis can be contracted if there are seasonal flare-ups of particulate matter, as it happens in the dry winter months in northern India.
• Blepharitis, an eye condition caused due to inflamed eyelids from repeated environmental toxins settling on the lash line.
• The most alarming result of long-term exposure to is the increased chances of developing cataracts and progression of existing eye conditions.

  How To Protect Your Eyes There are simple ways and practical solutions to protect the eyes, both in indoor and outdoor spaces:  

• Improve the indoor air quality by using air purifiers and monitoring air quality readings before stepping out.
• Wearing sunglasses outdoors during early mornings and late evenings when the air pollution is heightened.
• Practicing proper eye hygiene by using medically prescribed lubricant eye drops to wash the pollutants twice a day.
• Consuming Omega-3-rich foods to boost the immune system.

  It is important to know when there is a need to see a medical professional. If there are persistent symptoms, then it is essential to visit an ophthalmologist. There are practical ways to protect the eyes from long-term damage from air pollution, but the most important part is to breathe and exist in clean air.