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Journalism of Courage
Since the last few days, Delhi has been layered with a thick blanket of smog with pictures emerging from all parts of the city. The Air Quality Index in the city stood at a dismal 352 in the “very poor category” on Thursday morning. This was marginally lower than the 364 recorded at 4 PM on Wednesday.
For the sixth consecutive day, air quality in the national capital continues in the “very poor” category, with the AQI levels in at least five stations in the ‘severe’ (401 to 500) category, according to data procured from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), out of 35 monitoring stations.
In the festive backdrop of Diwali, as India drowns in the euphoria of lights and sounds, an underlying menace lurks – air pollution. Notably, our eyes become especially vulnerable during this period. The reason? The cornucopia of fireworks, industry smoke among other things. They release in the air a cocktail of chemicals including sulphur, zinc, sodium, and copper.
Dr Bhupesh Singh, senior ophthalmologist, Bharti Eye Hospitals, explained that the particulate matter, smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5), easily permeates the protective barriers of our eyes. They can lead to redness, irritation, and a gritty feeling. Moreover, harmful metals found in firecrackers can cause chemical burns or allergic reactions.
Recent studies also indicate a rise in cases of Dry Eye Syndrome after Diwali especially, a condition wherein eyes don’t produce enough tears or the right quality of tears, according to Dr Singh. Furthermore, as cities get shrouded in smog, reduced visibility can strain the eyes, making them more susceptible to infections and allergies.
What is scarier is that sustained close contact with these chemicals can cause potential disruption to the tear film, Dr Anurag Wahi, senior consultant, Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals explained. He added that the protective layer is crucial for maintaining ocular integrity and ensuring clear vision.
The eyes, being one of the most delicate and vital organs, deserve utmost care, particularly during this phase of pollution. Ensuring their protection not only prevents discomfort but also averts potential long-term damage.
Protection is twofold, according to Dr Singh and Dr Wahi. First is prevention, and second comes post-exposure care for your eyes.
Prevention: The most effective method remains reducing the use of firecrackers. Community celebrations, where fireworks are limited, can be an eco-friendly alternative. Residents are also advised to stay indoors, especially during peak bursting times, and keep windows and doors closed to limit indoor pollution. Wearing sunglasses or protective eyewear when stepping out can act as a barrier against pollutants.
Beyond this, maintaining regular hand hygiene is critical, acting as a preventive measure against inadvertently transferring contaminants from our hands to our eyes. Additionally, the strategic use of lubricating eye drops can be immensely beneficial.
Post-exposure care: In case of exposure, avoid rubbing the eyes. Instead, wash them gently with cold water. Artificial tear drops, available over the counter, can alleviate dryness and irritation. If discomfort persists, it’s imperative to consult an eye specialist immediately.
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