Ozone and particle pollution from sources like vehicle exhaust typically account for the majority of air pollution in the US. With good reason, most people equate this type of air pollution with lung and breathing issues.
Air pollution can exacerbate asthma and impair the healthy operation of your lungs. However, air pollution can harm your eyes as well, leading to dry eye disease.
According to the study, those who live in locations with high levels of air pollution are more likely to develop the disease known as dry eye syndrome, which is characterized by an inability of the eyes to produce enough tears to lubricate the surface of the eye.
The ocular surface, commonly referred to as the surface of your eye, might become dry due to pollution. Your eyes may hurt or burn if they are excessively dry. Vision blurring or a sensitivity to light are both possible symptoms. At best, it’s quite unpleasant; at worst, it’s excruciating.
Unfortunately, exposure to air pollution puts a large number of Americans at risk of developing dry eye syndrome.
In counties with harmful levels of either ozone or particulate pollution, according to the American Lung Association’s annual “State of the Air ” report, 120 million people live, a drop of more than 17 million from the previous study, but still close to 36% of all Americans.
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Pollution Peaks
According to the survey, some California metropolises currently have the highest pollution levels. In terms of ozone pollution, the Los Angeles region tops the list, whereas Bakersfield has the greatest levels of short-term particle pollution.
The Fresno region was surpassed as the worst for year-round particle pollution by Bakersfield.
But if you don’t reside in one of those regions, don’t relax too much. Major cities generally have high amounts of air pollution. Your eyes are also in danger if your lungs are.
If you reside in a location with high levels of air pollution, be on the lookout for the early warning symptoms of dry eye syndrome. To keep your eyes hydrated, consider using some preservative-free eye drops if you find that they seem dry, itchy, or scratchy.
Get a high-quality air filter for your house and use a humidifier at night to bring extra moisture to the air while also removing some of that air pollution.
Speak with your doctor if your symptoms of dry eyes persist. It’s crucial to understand that there are things to take for relief and that there are certain pharmaceutical alternatives that can assist.
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Source: CNN
