There is concern about how solar radiation damages our eyes. Also, the blue radiation from the screens that have invaded our daily lives. Finally, we are increasingly concerned about air pollution and whether it can damage our vision.
You don't have to live in a city in the world with high levels of pollution to experience its negative effects. Even the lowest levels in Europe can harm us.
Direct exposure of our eyes to air pollution can lead to dry eyes and secondly, the retina has many blood vessels, which makes it extremely sensitive to pollution.
One of the main visual disturbances associated with air pollution is glaucoma, as high exposure to particulate matter significantly increases the risk of developing it. Research has shown that exposure to PM2,5 concentrations below the limits set by the European Union can lead to an increase in the chances of developing glaucoma. According to these studies, there are no truly safe levels of air pollution in terms of eye health.
And in the case of waterfall the news is not good. Again according to studies, those living in areas with the highest levels of PM2.5 pollution had a 14% greater risk of needing cataract surgery. And in China, it is estimated that about ¼ of all age-related cataract cases are linked to particulate matter levels.
Finally, another eye disease associated with air pollution is myopia. In highly polluted China, 91% of high school students are myopic, while the corresponding figure in the cleaner Norway is about 13%. Of course, other factors may also play a role, such as lifestyle. In addition to particulate matter, high levels of nitric oxide are also associated with myopia.
But how can we protect our eyes from air pollution?;
- Wearing sunglasses.
- Using moisturizing eye drops.
- Washing our hands often.
- We don't rub our eyes.
- Following a diet rich in antioxidants.
