Polluted air may be bad for our eyes, which are open to the outside world and are very sensitive. This is especially scary for people who live in Lake Forest, California, because some natural factors can make things worse.
Optometrists like Kathleen Andersen , OD, know that air pollution and other things in Lake Forest can make it hard to keep your eyes healthy. Let us talk about how air pollution hurts our eyes and what we can do in Lake Forest to make our eyes healthier.
Invisible threats in the air.
Polluted air is made up of toxic particles and gases. Some of the places where this pollution comes from are workplaces, cars, and even construction sites. When we take in dirty air, the pollutants can hurt our eyes and cause other issues.
The following are some of the most harmful toxins to eye health:
- Particulate matter (PM): These tiny particles may enter the eyes and cause irritation, redness, and watering.
- Ozone: This gas can hurt the eye’s surface and make dry eye syndrome worse.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): These chemicals can make your eyes red and irritated.
Eye problems that can be caused by air pollution.
Being around air pollution can cause a number of eye problems, such as:
- Dry eyes: Polluted air can damage the tear film, which keeps the eyes moist and safe. This could make your eyes dry, itchy, and painful.
- Irritated eyes: Pollutants can hurt the conjunctiva, which is a thin layer of tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the eyeball. This could make your eyes turn red, burn, and water.
- Conjunctivitis: People with conjunctivitis, which is also called “pink eye,” have swelling of the cornea. Polluted air can cause allergic conjunctivitis or make the signs of conjunctivitis worse.
- More likelihood of infections: eyes that are dry and swollen are more likely to get infections.
- Damage over time: Long-term exposure to air pollution may cause cataracts and visual degeneration in the worst cases.
Things to consider in Lake Forest.
Air pollution is a problem all over the world, but in Lake Forest, some things can make it worse for our eyes. Here are some things to think about:
- Location of Lake Forest: Because the town is close to roads and factories, it may have higher amounts of pollution like PM and VOCs.
- Changes with the seasons: When it is dry and windy, dust and allergens can be more common, which can make the eyes even more itchy and irritated.
How can you protect your eyes in Lake Forest?
Given the unique conditions of Lake Forest’s surroundings, here are some important steps you should take to protect your eyes:
- Limit your time outside: When the air quality is bad, especially during high pollution hours, spend less time outside.
- Wear protective eyewear: Wear glasses or sunglasses that protect your eyes from dust, wind, and UVA and UVB rays. If you work outside or in a polluted area, you might want to wear safety goggles.
- Keep your eyes lubricated: Put something in your eyes to keep them wet. If your eyes feel dry, use fake tears throughout the day.
- Keep the air inside clean: Air filters can help clean the air you breathe at home and at work.
- Take care of your eyes: To keep toxins and allergens from getting into your eyes, wash your hands often.
- Arrange regular eye exams: An eye doctor can keep an eye on your health and catch any problems early.
By doing these things and keeping up to date on the air quality in your area, you can protect your eyes and lessen the effects of Lake Forest’s air pollution. Remember that having healthy eyes is important for living a good life, so put your health first!
