Every year, as pollution levels rise in urban India, eye clinics notice a significant increase in cases of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES). A condition that was once mostly associated with elderly people is now becoming a trend among young professionals and school children. The main reason is that the eyes are the most exposed organs to the environment, and the airborne pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, and ozone go right to the tear film - the thinnest protective layer that keeps the eyes moist, fed, and comfortable. The pollutants break down the tear film, which leads to it evaporating faster and causing inflammation. Patients may often have symptoms such as eye dryness, burning, redness, a feeling of sand, watering due to irritation, and fluctuating vision.
Environmental conditions during the pollution season further worsen the problem, with conditions such as dry air, low humidity, and cold winds accelerating tear evaporation and irritating the ocular surface. Many assume that staying indoors is protective, but prolonged exposure to air conditioning, heaters, or air purifiers can significantly reduce indoor humidity, worsening dryness. Additionally, prolonged screen use for work, online learning, or entertainment reduces blinking and strains already stressed eyes.
The rise in the prevalence of Dry Eye Syndrome in younger population is alarming. Young professionals spend the majority of their day working, while traveling through traffic-congested areas, and young children are also exposed to pollutants during their travel to and from school and outdoor activities. These two groups have many repeated exposures to pollutants. Additionally, excessive use of digital screens can increase the risk of Dry Eye Syndrome; this emphasizes the importance of implementing preventative care when experiencing significant air pollution.
Although better air quality and a healthier environment are necessary for long-term relief, some daily habits can control symptoms effectively. The regular application of preservative-free lubricating eye drops is a good way to maintain tear stability. Using wrap-around or clear protective glasses outdoors protects the eyes from direct contact with the pollutants. Being well-hydrated is a great support for tear production, and at the same time, if you follow the 20-20-20 rule, i.e., looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes, you will significantly reduce digital eye strain. Using a desktop humidifier near the workspace can also help maintain local moisture.
Our eyes are very sensitive and often become the first body part to visually manifest the negative impact of environmental stress. When the air quality gets better, the discomfort also tends to lessen. This is an unequivocal indication that the eye health condition is very much dependent on the air we breathe, and therefore, we must take good care of our eyes and be aware of the situation, most particularly during the time of season when the pollution levels are high.