How the Air Quality Affects the Eyes | Air Quality Awareness Week

When you think of air quality and its effects on your health, you may think of respiratory problems and allergies. However, there is a link between your eye health and air quality, which is frequently overlooked. 

You don't have to see air pollution for it to affect your eyes. Even if the sky looks clear, there can be tiny airborne particles that can trigger eye irritation. The bottom line is that air quality plays a larger role in vision than most people understand. 
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May 4th is Air Quality Awareness Week, designated to help people understand the overall effects of air quality on their well-being. 

What is in the air that can affect the eyes?

Several pollutants in the air may affect your eyes and vision, including the following: 

Pollen: Although not really a pollutant, pollen is one of the most common airborne culprits of eye irritation.

Wildfire smoke: In some parts of the country, wildfire smoke occurs relatively frequently. Gases, toxins, ash, and debris can cause eye irritation. 

Particulate matter: Particulate matter includes microscopic particles in the air from dust, smoke, and vehicle emissions, which can affect the eyes. 

Ozone: Ozone is a gas that can come in contact with the surface of your eye, increasing the risk of discomfort. 
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Indoor air quality is not always better. Common culprits of eye irritation include mold, dust, cleaning chemicals, and air conditioning and heating systems. 

How pollution affects the eyes 

Pollution can affect your eyes in several ways. For example, the tear film that protects your eyes can be disrupted by poor air quality. Your tears may evaporate more quickly, leading to dry eyes and irritation. 

Pollutants can also increase the risk of inflammation, leading to redness and increased eye sensitivity. 

Beyond temporary eye irritation, there may be a link between air pollution and certain eye diseases. Although more research is needed to confirm a definitive link, some studies show a connection. 

According to a research article in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, studies have shown that air pollutants, such as particulate matter, may be linked to an increased risk of glaucoma. 

Additionally, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is related to exposure to vehicle-related pollutants. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, a study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology showed an association between air pollution and the risk of AMD. But the mechanism involved is still not clear.
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Eye symptoms related to poor air quality 

Most people don't connect their eye symptoms to the air quality. Signs you may have eye issues due to poor air quality and pollutants include: 

• Redness or irritation
• Increased light sensitivity
• Blurry vision that comes and goes
• Burning or stinging eyes

These symptoms can occur for other reasons, but if they tend to worsen after spending time outside in smoky or polluted conditions, or at the end of a day, it may be due to your environment. 
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Protecting your eyes

We can't always avoid poor air quality, but there are steps you can take to protect your eyes. Consider the following:

• Use artificial tears to help maintain a stable tear film and reduce dry eye.
• Wear sunglasses, which can help protect against particles in the air.
• Use an air purifier indoors if you live in an area with frequent wildfires.
• Check the air quality daily at Airnow.gov. On days with poor air quality, consider limiting time spent outside and keeping windows closed. 

If you have any questions about protecting your eyes from poor air quality, we are happy to help. Also, if you would like to schedule an eye appointment with one of our eye doctors, please call our office at 508-746-8600.